Vincent Nyamongo sets new record in Spain. 

Kenya’s Vincent Nyamongo Nyageo made a triumphant return to form by clinching the men’s title at the third edition of the Sevilla Half Marathon in Seville, Spain, on Sunday, January 26th. 

After a challenging marathon debut last December in Valencia, where he was forced to withdraw, Nyamongo found redemption with a stellar performance.

His finishing time of 59:33 not only secured him first place but also set a new personal best. 

Nyamongo’s victory came with a reward of €2,000 (approximately Ksh 271,280), and his performance was particularly impressive given the high calibre of competition.

France’s Felix Bour finished in second place, also achieving a personal best of 1:00.00, while his compatriot, Valentin Gondouin, secured third with a time of 1:00.17.

Ireland’s Hiko Tonosa Haso and Italy’s Eyob Ghebrehiwet Faniel completed the top five, finishing fourth and fifth with times of 1:00.50 and 1:00.51, respectively.

For Nyamongo, this victory represents a career milestone, as he surpassed his previous performances with a standout run.

 “I knew I was in good form coming into the race, and I was determined to leave my mark,” Nyamongo said after his win. “It feels great to set a new personal best, and the support from my team and family kept me pushing until the end.”

While Nyamongo’s victory in Seville did not break the course record of 59:02 set three years ago by fellow Kenyan Sebastian Kimaru it was nonetheless a solid performance that will boost his confidence as he prepares for future international competitions.

The race also featured a notable achievement for Irish athlete Hiko Tonosa Haso, who equalled Ireland’s half marathon record of 1:00:51, a mark set by Efrem Gidey in Copenhagen last September. 

Born in Ethiopia, Tonosa had a turbulent journey before seeking asylum in Ireland, a decision that ultimately led to his success as both a marathoner and half marathoner for his adopted country.

“This record means a lot to me, especially considering the challenges I have faced in my personal life,” Tonosa shared after the race. 

“When I first came to Ireland in 2017, I never imagined I’d be in a position to set national records, but it just shows how perseverance pays off.”

Tonosa’s remarkable achievements are even more inspiring given his backstory. In 2017, while in Dublin for track races, Tonosa learned that his friend had been killed in Ethiopia for participating in protests against government persecution. 

Fearing for his own safety, Tonosa sought asylum in Ireland, where he eventually gained citizenship in 2020. 

Since then, he has represented Ireland at various international events, showcasing his talent on the world stage.

“I believe I have a lot more to give,” Tonosa reflected on his future goals. 

“My next target is to perform well in the Rotterdam Marathon and secure qualification for the World Championships in Tokyo later this year. This result in Seville gives me confidence as I move toward that goal.”

Tonosa’s incredible progress, from seeking asylum to becoming one of Ireland’s most accomplished long-distance runners, is a testament to his resilience. 

His impressive finish of 59:51 in Seville not only secured a new national record but also solidified his place in the world rankings.

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