Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2024: Defending Champions Ebenyo and Kebede set to return at Mega Event

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The ninth edition of the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, the world's first World Athletics Gold Label 25K race, is set to take place on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

With a prize pool of USD 142,214 and equal rewards for men and women, the event will see elite athletes competing for top honors on the fast and scenic streets of Kolkata.

Daniel Ebenyo (Kenya) and Sutume Kebede (Ethiopia), defending champions and current event record holders, will lead the star-studded lineup. Ebenyo set the men's record at 1:11:13 last year, while Kebede clocked 1:18:47 to dominate the women's race. Both are determined to better their timings and defend their titles.

Ebenyo aims to surpass his personal best and challenge the unofficial world record of 1:11:08, set by Eliud Kipchoge during a marathon split. "The Kolkata roads are fast, and conditions are ideal; it's a perfect opportunity to defend my title and better my timing," Ebenyo said.

Women's Race

The women's field is packed with talent. Kebede, the reigning champion, has shown remarkable improvement this year with personal bests in the half marathon (1:04:37) and marathon (2:15:55). Her competition includes:

Desi Jisa (Bahrain), the 2022 champion, known for her strong performances in marathons and cross-country events.

Degitu Azimeraw (Ethiopia), 2017 Kolkata champion, fresh off a sixth-place finish at the Chicago Marathon following a comeback post-maternity break.

Alemaddis Eyayu (Ethiopia), winner of the 2024 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, making her 25K debut.

Viola Chepngeno (Kenya), a consistent top-three finisher in international races.
Sintayehu Lewetegn (Ethiopia), a World Cross-country bronze medalist.

Men's Race

Along with the current champion Daniel Ebenyo, there will be some other tough competitors as well.

Benson Kipruto (Kenya), Tokyo Marathon 2024 champion and Paris Olympics bronze medalist, who was officially timed at 1:11:39 for 25K this year.

Stephen Kissa (Uganda), fifth in the 2023 World Championships Marathon and a half marathon PB of 58:56.

Haymanot Alew (Ethiopia), a top performer from last year's race, eager to make it to the podium.

Diriba Girma (Ethiopia), making his debut and aiming to follow in the footsteps of his world-champion brother, Lamecha Girma.

With runners motivated by an Event Record Bonus of USD 5,000, the competition promises excitement and potentially record-breaking performances.

Amateur Participation Soars

The race will also host over 20,000 amateur runners from India and around the world, cementing its status as a globally recognized event.

Key Players - Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2024

Men's Elite Field

Daniel Ebenyo (Kenya) - Defending Champion, 25K PB: 1:11:13
Benson Kipruto (Kenya) - Tokyo Marathon Winner, HM PB: 60:06
Stephen Kissa (Uganda) - World Marathon 5th Place, HM PB: 58:56
Haymanot Alew (Ethiopia) - 2023 Tata Mumbai Marathon Runner-up
Diriba Girma (Ethiopia) - Debut
Bravin Kiptoo (Kenya) - HM PB: 59:37
Samuel Kibet (Uganda) - HM PB: 60:50
Dejene Hailu (Ethiopia) - HM PB: 61:16
Teka Assefa (Ethiopia) - HM PB: 61:47

Women's Elite Field

Sutume Kebede (Ethiopia) - Defending Champion, 25K PB: 1:18:47
Desi Jisa (Bahrain) - 2022 Champion, 25K PB: 1:21:04
Degitu Azimeraw (Ethiopia) - Former Kolkata Champion, HM PB: 66:07
Alemaddis Eyayu (Ethiopia) - 2024 Delhi Half Marathon Winner
Viola Chepngeno (Kenya) - HM PB: 66:43
Sintayehu Lewetegn (Ethiopia) - Cross-country World Bronze Medalist

The countdown to December 15 has begun, with fans and athletes eagerly awaiting thrilling performances on Kolkata's streets. Arsenal legend Sol Campbell will also be present at the event, which further intensifies the event at the City of Joy.