by Alexandra Bondi
With just one week to go until Sunday, March 23, the La Valette Marathon is gearing up to welcome an exceptional field of elite international runners, all ready to battle for glory on one of Europe’s most stunning and historically significant marathon courses.
As the only AIMS-certified marathon in Malta, officially recognized by Abbott World Marathon Majors, the event continues to rise in global stature, drawing top-tier competitors eager to test their limits against the island’s demanding yet breathtaking terrain.
This year, the elite lineup features an exciting mix of seasoned marathon champions and some of Denmark’s strongest endurance athletes, making for an electrifying competition across both the full and half marathon distances.
Danish presence
In 2024, Danish marathon champion Thijs Mathisen Nijhuis delivered a commanding performance, setting a new course record of 2:25:12 at the La Valette Marathon.
His strategic execution and endurance cemented his place in the event’s history, proving that the fast, scenic course is a battleground for top-tier European athletes.
Building on Denmark’s strong presence, a new wave of Danish runners is set to compete this year.
Among them, Jesper Faurschou, Martin Østergaard Olsen, and Omar Hassan will look to carry forward Denmark’s momentum in Malta’s most prestigious endurance race.
Jesper Faurschou, a seasoned Danish marathoner, has built a reputation for his endurance and consistency in major European races.
Martin Østergaard Olsen, with multiple sub-65-minute half-marathon finishes, will be a key contender in the La Valette Half Marathon, while Omar Hassan, known for his road-racing strength, brings added depth to the Danish challenge.
Maltese favourite
Among the returning stars, Maltese runner Dillon Cassar is back to take on the La Valette Half Marathon after his record-breaking 1:07:31 performance in 2024.
Cassar’s time cemented him as Malta’s fastest half-marathoner at the event, demonstrating his ability to compete with international elites on home soil.
Now, in 2025, he returns stronger and more determined, ready to push the pace and defend his title.
World-Class field
On the men’s full marathon side, Kenyan marathon veteran Cosmas Kigen enters as one of the strongest contenders, having claimed victory at the Tirana Marathon and posting an impressive 2:09 PB at the Cologne Marathon.
His ability to run negative splits and execute late-race surges makes him a strong favorite for the title.
The men’s half marathon will be another hotly contested event, with Benard Kitur bringing his 60:59 half-marathon PB and strong international experience, including a 2:12:08 PB at the Sevilla Marathon.
His front-running style and endurance over rolling terrain will challenge his European competitors.
Rising Kenyan star Fredrich Kiprotich Boiyo, fresh off a 13:55 performance in the 5000m track event in Nairobi, will also be making his debut in the half marathon distance.
His raw speed and track endurance could pose a serious challenge to the more experienced road runners.
For the women’s half marathon, Chelangat Sang (Kenya), who finished runner-up at the 2023 Shuning Guayin Lake Marathon in China, will be looking to push the pace early, testing her European competitors with her 73:25 half-marathon PB and proven ability to perform in competitive international fields.
Course design
Beyond the elite competition, the La Valette Marathon offers athletes a racing experience unlike any other, set against the backdrop of Malta’s ancient city walls, coastal roads, and UNESCO-listed landmarks.
The AIMS-certified course starts in Manikata, winding through Malta’s stunning countryside, weaving through Sliema’s vibrant streets, and showcasing Valletta’s historic grandeur, before finishing at the breathtaking Grand Harbour in Vittoriosa.
The route combines fast, flat sections with technical rolling hills, challenging runners to balance speed, endurance, and smart race execution.
With its recognition from Abbott World Marathon Majors, the La Valette Marathon continues to grow in international prestige, solidifying Malta’s position as a top-tier running destination.
RACE ITINERARY
■ Full Marathon (42.195 km): 6:30 AM – Manikata, Triq Għajn Tuffieħa
■️ Half Marathon (21.1 km): 7:00 AM – Tower Road, Sliema
■️ 21 km Walkathon: 7:30 AM
■️ 10 km Run: 8:00 AM – Valletta, Pixkerija
■ 5 km Run: 8:30 AM – MCAST Hill, Paola
As the final days of preparation unfold, all eyes are now on March 23, when some of the world’s top endurance athletes – record-holders and national champions – will go head-to-head on Malta’s most prestigious marathon course.
With a stacked Kenyan lineup, a formidable Danish team, and homegrown talent like Dillon Cassar returning to defend his record, this year’s edition promises to be the most thrilling in the marathon’s history.
Who will seize victory and etch their name into Malta’s racing legacy?
Find out on race day.
For updates, results, and registration details, visit lavalettemarathon.com.
Author
