Record field of more than 100 runners powers 8th Sāmoa International Marathon

The Sāmoa International Marathon has reached a new milestone, attracting its largest field since the event began in 2016, with more than 106 runners from nine countries taking part in this year’s eighth edition.

Athletes competed across five race categories, with 16 runners completing the full marathon, 26 tackling the half-marathon, 30 entering the 10-kilometre event, 19 contesting the 6-kilometre race and 15 participating in the 3-kilometre fun run.

The growing international event welcomed competitors from China, Japan, the United States, Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and host nation Sāmoa, reflecting its increasing profile as one of the Pacific’s premier distance running events.

The full marathon, which started in Manono-uta and finished in Apia’s central business district, produced record-breaking performances. Australia’s Jason Green, 55, won the men’s title in a new course record, while Elizabeth Helm of the United States claimed the women’s marathon crown, also setting a new course record.

The marathon also marked a memorable achievement for local runners, with three Samoans completing the 42.2-kilometre distance for the first time. Among them were twin sisters Maryann Penn and Eleanor Penn of Vaimoso, who crossed the finish line after completing their first marathon.

Beyond the elite performances, this year’s event was highlighted by inspiring stories from participants spanning generations.

Craig Holt, 72, from Australia’s Gold Coast, was the oldest competitor to complete the full marathon. The oldest participant overall was a 76-year-old woman who is blind and completed the half-marathon by walking alongside her daughter and a friend, demonstrating determination that drew admiration from fellow participants.

At the opposite end of the field was Amelia, aged five, who became the event’s youngest participant. Accompanied by her father, Troy Evans, she completed the 3-kilometre course from Vailoa Faleata to Apia.

Several prominent members of the community also took part in this year’s event. Dr Misimoa Lam and Rosemary Lam returned for their second consecutive year, both competing in the 6-kilometre race. Dr Na’o’upu So’o completed the half-marathon, while District Court Judge Raymond Schuster celebrated a personal milestone by finishing his first marathon.

The record turnout represents continued growth for the Sāmoa International Marathon since its inaugural race eight years ago, with organisers attracting a broader mix of international and local runners each year.

Source: Information supplied by Seti Afoa – Samoa Events

IMAGE/ATA: Supplied. Full marathon field at the finish at FMFII Govt grounds.