Over 12,000 runners, buzzing crowds, sunshine, and history underfoot — this year’s PKO Poznań Half Marathon was more than just a race. It was a full-on celebration. Here’s why April 13th will be one for the books.
A Record-Breaking Day in Poznań
Sunday morning in Poznań saw the city pulsing with energy as 12,619 runners crossed the finish line of the 17th PKO Poznań Half Marathon — the biggest turnout in the event’s history. That’s right, a new record. The city centre was practically bouncing with excitement as both seasoned pros and first-time racers took on the 21.1 km course, cheered on by thousands of locals who lined the streets with banners, drums, and loads of good vibes.
Fast Feet and Big Wins
The men’s race had a clear frontrunner from the get-go. Eritrea’s Oqbe Kibrom Ruesom took the lead early — and never let go. He crossed the line in a sharp 1:02:23, looking cool and in control. Right behind him? His own pacemaker, Brian Limo from Kenya, who surprised everyone by sticking with the pace all the way and finishing just seconds later at 1:02:30.
Poland’s Kamil Jastrzębski gave the home crowd of the Half Marathon plenty to cheer for, landing third with 1:05:16.
Next year I’ll try to come back to Poznań and fight for the win.
said Kamil Jastrzębski at the finish — and with that attitude, we’re already rooting for him.
In the women’s race, it was a real showdown. Beatrice Mutai (Kenya) led for most of the run, but Viktoriia Kaliuzhna from Ukraine had other plans. She surged ahead in the final stretch to win in 1:12:05, turning heads with her timing and tenacity. Mutai followed in 1:13:38, with Ukraine’s Maryna Nemchenko grabbing third in 1:14:55. Proper drama to the very end.
Just off the podium but earning massive respect was Poland’s Sabina Jarząbek, the fastest Polish woman this year, finishing fourth with a strong 1:15:31. She ran smart, stayed consistent, and kept the red and white flag flying high.
Pacemakers: The Unsung Heroes
Ever heard of pacemakers? These are the runners who act like human metronomes. Their job isn’t to win — it’s to help others run smart, steady races. They carry coloured balloons or wear clear markers showing a target time (like sub-2 hours), and they run at that pace from start to finish so others can follow along and chase their personal bests.
It’s all about consistency and encouragement, especially during those tougher middle kilometres when legs get heavy and motivation dips.
This year, though, one pacemaker decided to spice things up. Brian Limo, meant to pace the lead group, ended up staying strong till the end — and took second place in the men’s race! Not a usual move, but a great reminder of how much skill these runners bring. Whether they’re pros or volunteers, pacemakers are the behind-the-scenes heroes who help make race day magic happen.
The Real MVPs? The Fans.
Poznań knows how to show up for its runners. With 19 official cheer zones, plus spontaneous support popping up all over the course, the energy was incredible. From chants of “Go, Dad!” to musical performances and even jokes about post-race pierogi, the whole thing felt like a city-wide party. The runners of the 17th PKO Poznań Half Marathon felt the support, especially on that last 200-metre stretch to Plac Świętego Marka, where the noise hit peak levels.
We asked for support before the race and the city really delivered. Runners felt the love every step of the way.
Łukasz Miadziołko, the race director, put it.
Wheels and History on Display
After a long break, wheelchair athletes were back in the half marathon this year. Witold Misztela won that division with a strong time of 1:19:13. It was emotional and inspiring to see these athletes pushing limits and leading the way.
And let’s not forget the medal. This year’s bling wasn’t just shiny — it told a story. Designed to mark the 1000th anniversary of Poland’s first royal coronations, it features kings Bolesław Chrobry and Mieszko II, along with the words “1000-lecie złotych koron” (1000th Anniversary of the Golden Crowns). It’s a piece of Polish history you can wear around your neck (and yes, you could get your name and time engraved too).
What’s Next?
Missed out this year or already itching for more? Mark your calendars! The 24th Poznań Marathon is coming on 12 October 2025, and the next PKO Half Marathon is set for 19 April 2026. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, looking to cheer someone on, or just want to soak up that community buzz, you’re more than welcome.
Poznań’s half marathon is about community, stories, and creating memories on the move. With runners from 36 countries, first-timers making up almost 25% of finishers, and locals making up a third of the field, this was a day where everyone felt they belonged.
