Yalemzerf Yehualaw Eyes Third Victory at Antrim Coast Half Marathon Showdown

Ethiopian running sensation Yalemzerf Yehualaw is set to return to the Antrim Coast Half Marathon this Sunday, aiming for her third victory in four years at the prestigious event. The race, which has garnered significant attention in the running community, will be broadcast live on BBC iPlayer and the sport website from 09:30 BST. At just 25 years old, Yehualaw has already made a considerable mark in the world of long-distance running. Her connection to the Antrim Coast Half Marathon is particularly noteworthy; in 2021, she clocked an impressive time of 63 minutes and 44 seconds, a performance that many initially celebrated as a new world record. However, race officials later revealed that the course was short by 54 meters, leading to a bittersweet outcome for the talented athlete. Undeterred, Yehualaw returned to the race the following year and secured her second consecutive title, setting a course record of 64:21 in the process. This year, she faces heightened competition as the race director, James McIlroy, has also attracted Joyciline Jepkosgei to the women's field. The former London and New York Marathon champion brings a wealth of experience and talent, having recently finished third in the London Marathon earlier this year. Jepkosgei, who triumphed in London in 2021 and was the runner-up the following year to Yehualaw, will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge for the Ethiopian runner. While Yehualaw has been largely inactive in competitive races since her eighth-place finish in the London Marathon last April, her history of success at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon suggests she could still be a formidable contender. The course, set against the picturesque backdrop of Larne, has been the site of her previous triumphs, and she will be looking to add another victory to her impressive resume. As enthusiasm builds for the race, fans and spectators alike are eager to see if Yehualaw can overcome the challenge posed by Jepkosgei and reclaim her title. With both athletes in the spotlight, the Antrim Coast Half Marathon promises to deliver an exciting and competitive showdown on Sunday.