Weather Conditions
The 2023 Berlin Marathon was graced with near-perfect weather conditions that set the stage for record-breaking performances. With a cool temperature hovering around 12°C (54°F) at the start of the race and a slight breeze, the climate was ideal for long-distance running. The sky remained overcast, providing a natural shade for the runners, and there was no sign of rain to dampen the spirits of the participants or the thousands of spectators lining the streets of Berlin. These conditions undoubtedly played a role in the incredible achievements witnessed during the race.
Men's Race
Winner: Eliud Kipchoge
- Time: 2:02:42
- Shoes: Nike Alphafly 3
The Story of the Race:
Eliud Kipchoge, the Kenyan marathon legend, returned to Berlin with one goal in mind: victory. The race started with Kipchoge setting a blistering pace, aiming to break his own world record. The first half of the marathon saw him leading the pack, with the crowd's anticipation reaching a fever pitch. However, as the kilometers ticked by, Kipchoge began to fade with the next place athletes seemingly catching him. Despite this, he rallied in the last few kilometers and his initial lead and unparalleled endurance allowed him to cross the finish line first, clocking in at 2:02:42. Although he missed setting a new world record, his performance was nothing short of extraordinary. His choice of footwear, the Nike Alphafly 3, was also a point of discussion. These "supershoes" are designed for superior performance and energy return, and they certainly seemed to give Kipchoge the edge he needed to secure his fifth Berlin Marathon win. It unclear if tech was the issue in this years marathon or wether the superstars performance dropped off due to his own fitness or the many of his pacers that seemed to drop off early. Was this the original strategy?
Notable Competitors:
- Vincent Kipkemoi (KEN) - 2:03:13
- Tadese Takele (ETH) - 2:03:24
Women's Race
Winner: Tigst Assefa
- Time: 2:11:53 (World Record)
- Shoes: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1
The Story of the Race:
Tigst Assefa, the Ethiopian sensation, took the Berlin Marathon by storm, shattering the previous women's world record by over two minutes. Assefa started the race as a favorite but exceeded all expectations. She maintained a consistent pace throughout, gradually pulling away from her closest competitors. By the time she reached the final kilometers, it was clear that a new world record was within reach. Assefa crossed the finish line in 2:11:53, making history and setting a new standard for women's marathon running. Her choice of the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 "supershoes" was also noteworthy. These shoes promise a blend of lightness and efficiency, and they seemed to provide Assefa with the extra push she needed to break the record. She could be seen taking off her left shoe and kissing it for the cameras after the race. This gives us some insight into wether she feels the tech played a role or not.
Notable Competitors:
- Sheila Chepkirui (KEN) - 2:17:49
- Magdalena Shauri (TAN) - 2:18:41
The "Supershoes" Showdown
The 2023 Berlin Marathon was not just a race of athletes but also a clash of "supershoes." The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 and Nike's Alphafly 3 were the stars of the show. Both shoes promise superior performance and energy return, thanks to years of research, aerodynamic design, and advanced materials. Nikes new flagship marathon races has yet to be released however the adidas competitor was recentlly released under with much comotion regarding its hefty price tag and short life with adidas quoting it as a single race use shoe. Wether this is really the case we will find out once more epople get their heands on the super ultra mega unobtanium racer.