The inaugural International Elche–Alicante Marathon has gathered 3,500 runners on Sunday along a 42-kilometre route linking Elche and Alicante. Kenya’s Kipkirui Langat has won the men’s race in 2:12:54 and Ethiopia’s Ayehu Tesfahun has taken the women’s title in 2:35:03. Organisers say 4,300 bibs were registered and runners represented more than 50 nationalities, with women making up 15 per cent of entries.

The race started at the Palacio de Altamira in Elche and finished at Pier 12 in the Port of Alicante, passing through Torrellano and Alicante’s city centre. The course has been certified by the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation and relied on 420 volunteers, eight refreshment points and several animation zones. Organisers note the event is unique in Spain as a city-to-city marathon, drawing comparison with Boston.

The men’s podium was completed by Eritrea’s Hiskel Tewekde (2:13:39) and Uganda’s Keneth Kiprop (2:13:58). In the women’s race Spain’s Mercedes Velasco was second in 2:51:53 and France’s Magalie Veron third in 2:53:09. Mayors Luis Barcala of Alicante and Pablo Ruz of Elche gave the start at nine o’clock and joined the prize-giving.

Alicante’s mayor has highlighted the sporting and tourist benefits, saying hotel occupancy exceeded 85 per cent and praising the potential to de-seasonalise tourism through sport. The event was organised by Club Atlético Montemar with support from both city councils, and organisers say they will work to consolidate the marathon in future editions.