The stage is set for the 2025 Daegu World Masters Athletics Championships as the city recently hosted its largest marathon to date. On February 23, 2025, over 40,000 runners flooded the streets around Daegu Stadium, creating an electrifying atmosphere, all part of building momentum toward the major athletics event planned for later this year.
Gabriel Gerald Gay from Tanzania captured attention by clinching the international men's category with breathtaking performance, finishing the race with an impressive time of 2 hours, 5 minutes, and 21 seconds. This not only showcased Gay's capabilities but also highlighted Daegu as a premier locale for serious racing. South Korea's own Park Min-ho led the domestic competitors, crossing the finish line as the top male athlete of the day.
Crowds were undeterred by the cold temperatures, which hovered around 0 degrees Celsius. "Despite the chilly weather, the enthusiasm from participants was palpable," reported YTN’s Kim Geun-woo, who was on-site to capture the spirited scenes. The marathon's date change from April to February was envisioned to help athletes set record times, and as it turned out, the cooler weather worked in their favor.
This year's event marked the highest ever turnout for the Daegu Marathon, leading many to believe this trend will continue as more runners join the so-called 'Running Crew,' local running clubs proliferate throughout the country. With participants snowballing, safety measures including separate finishing lines for full and half-course runners were stringently implemented.
On the competitive front, the prize money significantly surpassed the renowned Boston Marathon, boasting totals north of $160,000. This strategy reflects Daegu's ambition to position itself among the world's elite marathons, as city officials aspire to cultivate greater international recognition, aiming for the coveted status of one of the top seven marathon events worldwide.
Officials believe the lure of higher prizes will attract elite athletes from around the globe, with plenty of expectations set on the performances for the upcoming World Masters Athletics Championships. Daegu is gearing up not just for the marathon competition but also for its role as the host city for countless global athletes who will bring prestige and attention to the region.
With training and excitement ramping up for the championships, the 2025 Daegu Marathon demonstrated the potential for growth and excitement within the sport, captivating both local and international participants. Such events contribute not only to the athletic fabric of South Korea but also strengthen Daegu’s identity within the global sporting community.
Enthusiasts and professionals alike eagerly anticipate more exhilarating competitions as they prepare for the championships later this year. 2025 serves not only as the year of the marathon but also as the cornerstone for Daegu’s sporting legacy as it enhances its reputation on the world stage.