Two Women Shatter World Records in Race Walking History
In a historic morning at the European Championships, María Pérez and Sofia Fiorini became the first official world record holders for half marathon and marathon race walking. Both athletes demolished the standards set just eight months ago when these distances became official events.
Two women made history on the same Birmingham track, setting world records that will stand as the first official marks in race walking's newest events.
María Pérez of Spain conquered the half marathon race walk in 1 hour, 30 minutes, and 6 seconds at the European Championships on Saturday. The performance came 24 seconds faster than the challenging standard World Athletics had set for the inaugural record.
Pérez dominated from the starting line, breaking away from Italy's Antonella Palmisano around the 10-kilometer mark and never looking back. By the time she crossed the finish line, she'd built a lead of nearly a minute over the silver medalist.
Less than two hours later, 21-year-old Sofia Fiorini of Italy stepped onto the same course and delivered another record-breaking moment. She finished the marathon race walk in 3:15:11, destroying the world standard by nearly two full minutes.
Fiorini's performance was even more remarkable considering she'd improved her personal best by more than 10 minutes. Just four months earlier at the World Race Walking Team Championships, she'd clocked 3:25:42.
Why This Inspires
These records represent more than just fast times. When World Athletics officially recognized the half marathon and marathon race walk distances on January 1, 2026, they were betting on athletes who could rise to meet ambitious new standards.
Pérez and Fiorini didn't just meet those standards. They showed up on the same morning, in the same city, and both demolished the benchmarks set for them.
For Pérez, this adds to an already stellar career that includes a world record at 35km and a previous European title. For Fiorini, it's a breakthrough moment that announces her arrival as a force in the sport.
The timing matters too. As athletics continues evolving and adapting its events, these women proved the sport's future is bright and fast.
Their names will forever be listed as the first official world record holders at these distances, a distinction no one can ever take away.
Based on reporting by Google News - World Record
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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