Weekly running news roundup: March 29 — April 4, 2026

The running world never stops. The final days of March and the beginning of April have been packed with stories worth following: road races with blistering times, tightly contested trail podiums, doping sanctions that remind us of the importance of fair play, and federation decisions that will shape upcoming competitions. This roundup gives you a complete overview so you don’t miss a thing.

Road races: half marathons and marathons at the elite level

Generali Berlin Half Marathon 2026. The German race once again delivered world-class performances. In the men’s field, Kenya’s Andrea Kiptoo and compatriot Dennis Kipkemoi Kipkogei both clocked 59:11, with Germany’s Amanal Petros completing the podium in 59:22. In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Likina Amebaw took the win in 1:05:07, ahead of Daisilah Jerono (1:05:21) and Veronica Loleo (1:05:35). With strong international participation and a fast course, Berlin remains one of Europe’s premier half marathons. Full results are available on the AIMS website.

• Men’s top 3: Andrea Kiptoo (59:11), Dennis Kipkemoi Kipkogei (59:11), Amanal Petros (59:22).
• Women’s top 3: Likina Amebaw (1:05:07), Daisilah Jerono (1:05:21), Veronica Loleo (1:05:35).

Generali Prague Half Marathon 2026. Under chilly but sunny skies, the Czech capital hosted a standout performance. Burundi’s Rodrigue Kwizera successfully defended his title and set a new course record of 58:16. He was followed by Kenya’s Samwel Chebolei (58:48) and Owen Korir (58:58). In the women’s race, Kenya’s Caroline Makandi Gitonga secured victory in 1:06:16 after a close battle with Jesca Chelangat (1:06:45) and Cynthia Chelangat Chepkwony (1:06:49). With more than 17,000 runners from 117 nationalities, Prague continues to establish itself as a benchmark event.

• Men’s top 3: Rodrigue Kwizera (58:16), Samwel Chebolei (58:48), Owen Korir (58:58).
• Women’s top 3: Caroline Makandi Gitonga (1:06:16), Jesca Chelangat (1:06:45), Cynthia Chelangat Chepkwony (1:06:49).

Wuxi Marathon (China). Although it took place a week earlier, its results are still making waves. Ethiopia’s Kemal Husen won in 2:07:07, ahead of China’s Jinhu Mao (2:07:36) and Kenya’s Victor Kipchirchir (2:07:58). In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Amid Fozya Jemal claimed victory in 2:24:14, followed by Meizhen Li (2:25:06) and Sisay Meseret Gola (2:26:20). Performances like these highlight the growing prominence of Asian marathons.

Trail and ultrarunning: standout performances on the trails

The specialist website iRunFar reported a weekend dominated by demanding mountain races:

• Reventón El Paso (La Palma, Spain). In the 70 km race, Spain’s Azara García claimed victory in 8h22, six minutes ahead of Aroa Sío. Switzerland’s Lucien Epiney won the men’s race in 6h57, followed by Alexis Martín (7h10) and Manuel Mesa (7h51). Claudia Mola and Mario Olmedo won the marathon distance.
• Behind the Rocks Ultra (Moab, USA). Kristin Johnson not only won the 50-mile race but also finished second overall in 8h40, while Eli White led the men in 7h55. In the 50 km race, Mary Baughman dominated in 4h45.
• Crown King Scramble 50K (Arizona, USA). Ailsa MacDonald (4h40) and Kevin Taddonio (4h13) claimed victory in this long-standing desert race.
• Bath 50 Ultra Challenge (UK). Isabelle Talbot Price and Declan O’Callaghan won the 50 km race in 4h20 and 4h00.
• Cursa Tomir (Mallorca, Spain). The 33 km race produced two rare triple ties: Emelie Forsberg, Joyce Njeru and Bel Calero Garau in the women’s race, and Elhousine Elazzaoui, Kilian Jornet and Dakota Jones in the men’s.
• Georgia Death Race 74 Mile (USA). Brianna Grigsby finished in 14h20, just 13 minutes behind men’s winner Jack Elvin (14h07), highlighting the narrowing performance gap in ultrarunning.
• Trail des Vallées (France). Dany Le Sergent and Matthieu Couette dominated the 115 km race. At the Lyon Urban Trail (38 km), Diana Ballet and Sébastien Spehler repeated their victories.
• SĂ-RUN-I Trail Race (Romania). Delia Reit (3h43) and Leonard Mitrica (2h57) won the 37 km race.
• Buffalo Stampede (Australia). The demanding 100 km course crowned Fu-Zhao Xiang (11h41) and George Knight (9h52). In the 42 km SkyMarathon, Kate Avery and Charlie Hamilton took victory.

These events highlight the diversity of the global trail calendar—from volcanic terrain in La Palma to the Australian Alps and the deserts of Arizona. For trail runners, it’s an ideal moment to plan the spring season.

What’s next: April ultras to watch

Ultra Running Magazine previewed the standout events for the first weekend of April, with 28 ultramarathons across North America. Some highlights include:

• American River 50 Mile (California). A fast, iconic race with a highly competitive field.
• Rockin’ K Trail Runs (Kansas). A mix of technical trails and gravel in a scenic setting.
• The Country Mile (South Carolina). A 48-hour endurance challenge on a looped course.
• Run Across CT 123 (Connecticut). A 123-mile crossing of the state for ultra enthusiasts.
• Hill of a Race (Canada). A timed event ideal for accumulating vertical gain.

If you’re considering stepping into ultrarunning, remember to adapt your training and prioritise recovery. These events offer entry points for every level.

Doping and federations: key developments

The case of Albert Korir made headlines. The 2021 New York City Marathon champion admitted using EPO and received a five-year ban. The sanction reinforces the importance of clean sport.

Ruth Chepngetich, current world record holder, is also serving a three-year ban after a positive test in 2025. While her record remains valid, the case highlights ongoing concerns around doping.

Meanwhile, USA Track & Field announced an exceptional expansion of its women’s team for the upcoming World Road Running Championships after an incident in Atlanta. The decision prioritises fairness and athlete protection.

Lessons for runners

Beyond the headlines, this week offers clear takeaways: structured training improves performance on the road, while strength and technique are crucial in trail running. Plan your season carefully and set realistic goals.

Above all, remember that running is about consistency, effort and integrity. That’s the foundation of real progress.

If you want to track your training, discover new routes and connect with other runners, the SnapRace app provides everything you need to keep improving. See you at the next finish line!