In a breathtaking display of running prowess, Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee has cemented his name in British athletics history. The 27-year-old produced a sensational performance at the Valencia Marathon, clocking a time of two hours, six minutes, and 38 seconds to become the second-fastest British marathon runner of all time.
From Triathlon Gold to Marathon History
This remarkable feat marks a stunning diversion for Yee, who only turned to the marathon this year following his gold medal triumph in the triathlon at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His reaction upon crossing the finish line in Valencia said it all: a roar to the skies followed by hands clasped to his head in sheer disbelief at the time on the clock.
The achievement is even more impressive considering his debut over the 26.2-mile distance in London in April was hampered by illness, resulting in a time of 2:11:08. After that race, Yee candidly admitted, “God damn, marathon is hard”. However, the athlete, who represented Britain in the 10,000m at the European Championships as a teenager, knew he had untapped potential on the roads.
A Perfectly Executed Race Plan
His preparation for Valencia hinted at a major breakthrough. Training alongside established marathon stars Emile Cairess – fourth in the Paris Olympic marathon – and Phil Sesemann, Yee put in the rigorous work required. The race itself was a masterclass in pacing and endurance.
Guided through the first half by Cairess, Yee passed the midway point in a swift 1:03:32. Despite temperatures rising into the mid-teens, conditions warmer than ideal for distance running, he grew stronger. Yee ran a negative split, covering the second half of the race in an even faster 1:03:06 to secure his historic time and a seventh-place finish in a highly competitive field.
Chasing Farah's Shadow and Future Goals
Yee’s phenomenal run places him firmly in the shadow of only one man: Sir Mo Farah. Farah’s British record of 2:05:11, set at the 2018 Chicago Marathon, remains the benchmark. For now, the chances of Yee challenging that record appear slim.
He has committed to returning to his primary sport, triathlon, full-time next year, with his focus squarely on defending his Olympic title. It is likely that fans will not see him contest another marathon until after the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Nevertheless, his performance in Valencia stands as a monumental testament to his extraordinary athletic talent and versatility, proving that even on a brief sabbatical, Alex Yee can rewrite the record books.
