The All-Russian Kazan Marathon is currently underway in Kazan, running from May 3 to May 4, 2025, and it has already made headlines with impressive performances and a record-breaking atmosphere. With 34,000 participants, including 13 runners from Bratsk, the event has drawn a massive crowd eager to showcase their athleticism.
Among the notable participants is 75-year-old Lidia Antipina, who completed the 10-kilometer race on the first day in an impressive time of 1 hour and 16 minutes. Antipina represents not just the spirit of endurance but also the growing popularity of marathon events among all age groups. As the head of the Bratsk running club noted, the Bratsk team is set to compete in the half marathon and full marathon on May 4, looking to further demonstrate their skills.
The first day of the marathon was marked by a sensational record in the women’s 10-kilometer race. Anastasia Krasilnikova, running her debut at the Kazan Marathon, set a new track record with a remarkable time of 32 minutes and 29 seconds. This young athlete, originally from Chuvashia, is already a Russian youth record holder in the 3,000 meters, and her performance at the marathon has certainly put her on the map.
On the same day, the marathon also featured a mass 3-kilometer race that attracted around 7,000 participants, showcasing the event's inclusivity and community spirit. Additionally, children’s races held at the Central Stadium saw 3,000 young runners participating, highlighting the event's focus on encouraging a love for athletics from a young age.
As excitement builds for the main marathon events scheduled for May 4, there are high hopes among organizers to see new records set. The marathon distance of 42.2 kilometers is particularly anticipated, with organizers aiming to break the Russian record of 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 7 seconds, set by Alexey Sokolov in 2007.
As the marathon continues, the atmosphere in Kazan is electric. Dmitry Nedelin emerged victorious in the SberPrime Kazan Marathon on May 4, completing the 42.2 kilometers in an impressive time of 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 38 seconds. This victory places him among the elite marathon runners in Russia.
Following closely behind, Vladimir Nikitin finished in second place with a time of 2 hours and 9 minutes, 55 seconds, while Kenyan runner Elkana Langat secured third place with a time of 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 15 seconds. Notably, Alexey Reunkov earned the bronze medal at the Russian Championship with a time of 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 32 seconds.
In the women’s marathon, Judith Cherono from Kenya took the crown, finishing with a time of 2 hours, 29 minutes, and 21 seconds. Marina Kovaleva, who finished second, clocked in at 2 hours, 30 minutes, and 27 seconds, while Luiza Dmitrieva and Alena Tatarinova followed closely behind, finishing at 2 hours, 33 minutes, and 20 seconds, and 2 hours, 33 minutes, and 22 seconds, respectively.
The event has not only been a showcase of athletic prowess but also a significant occasion for the local economy. According to Tatarstan's Minister of Sports, Vladimir Leonov, approximately 35,000 people participated in the marathon, and the total prize fund amounted to 7 million 400 thousand rubles, demonstrating the event's scale and importance.
However, the marathon has also led to some logistical challenges in Kazan. Due to the ongoing competitions, access to several parking lots and sections of streets has been restricted for vehicles. The restrictions began at 5:00 AM and are expected to last until 3:00 PM on May 4, affecting areas around the Central Stadium and several key streets throughout the city.
Public transport routes have also been adjusted to accommodate the marathon, prompting the local authorities to advise residents and visitors to plan their journeys ahead of time. The Kazan traffic police have emphasized the importance of adhering to road signs and signals during this busy period.
As the marathon progresses, the excitement continues to build, with many spectators and participants eagerly anticipating the outcomes of the half marathon and full marathon events. The Kazan Marathon, now in its 11th year, is not just a sports event; it has become a celebration of community, endurance, and the spirit of competition.
With such a strong turnout and remarkable performances, the Kazan Marathon is set to make history this year, establishing itself as a premier event in the athletics calendar. As runners finish their races and the city buzzes with energy, the legacy of this marathon will undoubtedly inspire future generations to take up running and participate in such grand athletic events.
