Lima prepares for the 115th Half Marathon, an event full of excitement and solidarity.

The atmosphere is charged with emotion and expectation in Lima, where the Kia Media Marathon of Lima & 10K Powered by Puma will take place, an event that not only celebrates the long history of this competition but also highlights the commitment of Peru Runners to organizing large-scale sporting events. This Sunday, August 25, will be a key day for running enthusiasts, who will gather in the Plaza de Armas to kick off a day that symbolizes the perseverance and effort of thousands of runners, while also marking the 115th anniversary of one of the oldest races in the world. Alejandra Rodríguez, general manager and director of the event, shared her enthusiasm: "We are very happy that in the year we celebrate 40 years of Peru Runners, the half marathon turns 115. It is an honor for us to organize this race and elevate the standard year after year." This statement resonates strongly, emphasizing the role of Peruvians in organizing sporting events that can compete at an international level. The history of the Lima Half Marathon is rich and significant. Rodríguez recalled that when Lima was still a horse-drawn city and only four editions of the Olympic Games had been held, this race already existed, underscoring Peru's pioneering spirit in the realm of sports. To honor this heritage, a photography exhibition from the Historical Archive of El Comercio will be presented, allowing attendees to visually appreciate the legacy of this event. One of the most notable aspects of the Half Marathon is its social impact. More than 100 solidarity champions have committed to raising funds for various causes, including the Peruvian Cancer Foundation and CARE Peru, which works with vulnerable children and women. Rodríguez emphasized that thanks to these efforts, more than 50,000 soles have already been raised, and this number is expected to continue growing. "This confirms that a race can be a vehicle for inclusion, unity, and solidarity," she stated, highlighting the ability of sports to bring people together around common causes. The number of participants in this edition is impressive, with over 17,000 registered runners. This year, female participation has reached 46.10%, which is a significant advancement towards including more women in sports. Additionally, special categories have been created for visually impaired athletes, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and accessibility in the sporting arena. The medals awarded will also feature text in braille, which is an important step toward greater inclusion in running. The logistics for the event are designed with great attention to detail. The starts are scheduled for 6:00 a.m. for the 10K distance and 7:00 a.m. for the half marathon, with the Plaza de Armas as the starting point and the Parque de La Reserva as the finishing location. This route is not only a physical challenge for the runners but also a celebration of the beauty and culture of Lima. The Lima Half Marathon is not just a race; it is a tradition that has endured over the years, uniting generations of runners and sports enthusiasts. Rodríguez concluded with a look to the future: "May these be the first 115 years and may another 115 come. We reaffirm ourselves as the oldest half marathon in the world." This statement reflects the desire to keep alive a tradition that has been part of Peruvian identity. In parallel, the joy of celebrating this sporting event is complemented by the recent news that Stefano Peschiera has reached the podium at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, bringing home a bronze medal in men's sailing-dinghy. This achievement is a testament to the talent and dedication of Peruvian athletes, who continue to shine in international competitions. The Lima Half Marathon, along with the achievements of athletes like Peschiera, places Peru in a prominent position on the global sports map. The combination of tradition, inclusion, and success highlights the passion of Peruvians for sports and the ability of organizers to offer quality events that inspire new generations. Undoubtedly, Sunday will be a date to remember, where history, solidarity, and sports will come together in a unique celebration.