Kolkata: A crisp winter morning in Kolkata set the stage for a spectacular 10th edition of the Tata Steel World 25K, as records fell, champions delivered, and Indian distance running took another decisive leap forward.
While Uganda’s Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei stamped his authority in the international elite men’s race, the spotlight firmly belonged to Indian stars Gulveer Singh and Seema, who shattered course records in their respective elite categories with commanding performances.
Cheptegei Clinches Maiden Kolkata Title
Cheptegei, the reigning double Olympic champion, controlled the international elite men’s race from the outset. Maintaining a relentless pace, he broke away decisively in the final four kilometres to clinch his maiden Tata Steel World 25K title in 1:11:49.
Tanzania’s Alphonce Felix Simbu (1:11:56) and Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana (1:11:59) completed a closely fought podium. Though Cheptegei narrowly missed the course record of 1:11:13 set in 2023, his composed and authoritative run reaffirmed his dominance over the distance.
“Winning mattered more than the record for me. Coming back to Kolkata and winning is special. This victory gives me confidence as I prepare for my next marathon,” said Cheptegei.
Degitu Azimeraw Triumphs in Elite Women’s Race
In the international elite women’s race, Ethiopia’s Degitu Azimeraw delivered a masterclass to dethrone two-time champion Sutume Asefa Kebede. Leading from the gun, Azimeraw steadily increased her advantage to cross the finish line in 1:19:36.
Sutume finished second in 1:20:28, while Meselech Alemayehu secured third in 1:20:48, completing an Ethiopian clean sweep. Although Azimeraw’s run was dominant, the course record remained with Sutume.
“After 10km, my legs felt better and I kept building my speed. I am very happy with this win,” Azimeraw said after the race.
Gulveer Singh Smashes Indian Record
The most compelling narrative unfolded in the Indian elite men’s race as Gulveer Singh delivered a performance of rare authority. Clocking 1:12:06, Gulveer slashed over two minutes off his own course record set in 2024, briefly running alongside international elites before surging ahead of the Indian field.
Harmanjot Singh (1:15:11) and Sawan Barwal (1:15:25) completed the podium.
“Records come from consistency. There are no shortcuts. India is rising, step by step, race by race,” said Gulveer, the Asian long-distance double gold medallist.
Seema Rewrites History in Indian Women’s Race
Equally emphatic was Seema’s victory in the Indian elite women’s category. The Asian Cross-Country Champion clocked 1:26:04, breaking an eight-year-old course record previously held by Suriya L.
She finished well clear of Sanjivani Jadhav (1:30:34) and Nirmaben Thakor (1:32:02), showcasing both tactical brilliance and superior endurance.
“The course is more challenging now, but I came here to win. My next target is qualifying for the Asian and Commonwealth Games,” Seema said.
Provisional Results (Top Finishers)
International Elite Men:
Joshua Cheptegei (UGA) – 1:11:49
Alphonce Felix Simbu (TAN) – 1:11:56
Tebello Ramakongoana (LES) – 1:11:59
International Elite Women:
Degitu Azimeraw (ETH) – 1:19:36
Sutume Asefa Kebede (ETH) – 1:20:28
Meselech Alemayehu (ETH) – 1:20:48
Indian Elite Men:
Gulveer Singh – 1:12:06 (New Event Record)
Harmanjot Singh – 1:15:11
Sawan Barwal – 1:15:25
Indian Elite Women:
Seema – 1:26:04 (New Event Record)
Sanjivani Jadhav – 1:30:34
Nirmaben Thakor – 1:32:02
The landmark 10th edition of the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata thus concluded with record-breaking performances, elite international competition, and a resounding statement of India’s growing stature in long-distance running.
