New King of Cardiff: Yismaw Dillu’s Stunning Run

Lightning pace, broken records, and a double title defense in the Welsh capital.

Yismaw Dillu turned the streets of Cardiff into his personal racetrack on Sunday, storming to victory at the 2025 Cardiff Half Marathon with a record-breaking performance.

The 20-year-old Ethiopian sensation crossed the finish line in 59 minutes and 23 seconds, shattering the previous mark set by Kenya’s Leonard Langat in 2019 by seven seconds. It was a stunning display of control and endurance over the 13.1-mile (21km) route that drew more than 29,000 runners to the Welsh capital.

Dillu was untouchable from the start — breaking away early and never looking back. His nearest rival, Kenya’s Ismael Kiprono, finished over 40 seconds behind in 1:00:05, while Ethiopia’s Fikadu Liche completed the podium with 1:00:34.

Chebet reigns again in women’s race

Kenya’s Miriam Chebet proved unstoppable once more, defending her title in style. She clocked 1:06:36, slicing five seconds off her own winning time from last year.

Ethiopia’s Alem Nigus took second place in 1:07:33, and debutant Wudinesh Alemu, also from Ethiopia, finished third with 1:08:08 — an impressive debut at the event.

Wheelchair triumph for Callum Hall

Leeds native Callum Hall, coached by Ian Thompson (husband of Paralympic legend Tanni Grey-Thompson), dominated the wheelchair race with a time of 53:46. He finished comfortably ahead of Poland’s Sam Kolek (57:28) and Britain’s Josh Hickinbottom (59:07).

It was a record-setting day in Cardiff — filled with speed, spirit, and stories of determination. Dillu’s breakthrough marks him as one of the rising stars of world distance running.