Kenyan star Geoffrey Kamworor aims for dominance in Barcelona amid fierce competition. Will his experience and speed give him the edge?
Two-time New York Marathon champion Geoffrey Kamworor is set to make a powerful return to competition at the Barcelona Half Marathon on February 16.
Despite finishing fifth in the New York Marathon last November, Kamworor remains one of the most formidable half-marathon specialists in the world.
Kamworor’s reputation as a half-marathon great is built on consistency and experience.
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The 32-year-old has won the World Half Marathon Championships three times, triumphing in Copenhagen (2014), Cardiff (2016),and Valencia (2018). His times—59:08, 59:10, and 1:00:02, respectively—underscore his remarkable ability to perform at the highest level.
His prowess on the road is further highlighted by victories in the 2019 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon (58:54), 2019 Copenhagen Half Marathon (58:01), and 2011 Lille Half Marathon (1:00:02).
Additionally, Kamworor has consistently been a top contender in other elite races, finishing second at the New Delhi Half Marathon in 2011, 2013, and 2014, as well as the 2021 Istanbul Half Marathon, where he clocked 59:38.
Beyond his achievements, Kamworor possesses a unique blend of speed, endurance, and tactical intelligence, which makes him a force to reckon with.
His ability to control the pace, break away at decisive moments, and sustain top speed over long distances sets him apart from many of his competitors.
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Barcelona provides an opportunity for him to reassert his dominance after missing out on major victories last season.
However, Kamworor is not without competition. Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, the reigning world half-marathon champion and Olympic 10,000m bronze medalist, is one of the biggest threats in the race.
Kiplimo’s 2021 Lisbon Half Marathon victory in a staggering 57:31—the second-fastest time ever recorded—demonstrates his incredible speed.
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With Kiplimo using Barcelona as a tune-up for his marathon debut in London, he will push Kamworor to his limits.
Another major contender is the Netherlands’ Abdi Nageeye, the 2021 Olympic marathon silver medalist and last year’s New York Marathon champion.
Though more accustomed to full marathons, Nageeye has proven his strength over 21.1km, with wins at the 2023 Loop Den Haag and the 2019 Marugame Half Marathon.
Kenya’s Roncer Konga, Samwel Mailu, Bernard Kibet, and Josphat Kiprono will also be looking to make an impact, alongside debutants Julius Kiplimo, Edwin Kisalsak, and Geoffrey Kiboy.
The depth of the field ensures that Kamworor will have to be at his very best to secure victory.
Despite the stiff competition, Kamworor’s experience and race-craft give him a decisive edge.
His ability to handle pressure, adapt to different racing conditions, and execute a well-planned strategy makes him the man to beat.
Having had ample time to recover and refocus since his last race in November, he is primed to unleash a stellar performance.