The 13th IAAF World Half Marathon Championships, held on 3 October 2004 in New Delhi, witnessed a historic moment as athletes from a record 64 countries gathered to compete in the prestigious event. This marks the highest number of participating nations in the history of the championship, underscoring the growing global appeal and competitiveness of the half marathon.
The event, which saw athletes from across the world converge in India’s capital, was a showcase of elite athleticism, featuring some of the best long-distance runners from all corners of the globe. The competition was held on a challenging yet scenic route that tested the endurance and speed of the participants, with both men’s and women’s races attracting fierce competition.
The IAAF World Half Marathon Championships has always been a significant milestone in the athletics calendar, and the 2004 edition was no different. With a diverse field of runners representing nations from every continent, the event highlighted the universal passion for running and the spirit of international unity through sport.
India, as the host nation, took great pride in welcoming such a wide array of competitors, and the event’s success further established New Delhi as a key destination for world-class athletic competitions. The championship was also seen as a great opportunity to promote long-distance running in India, inspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts across the country.
In addition to the thrilling races, the 2004 event also set the stage for new records, with numerous personal bests being shattered across the board. The athletes’ performances, combined with the electric atmosphere, made for an unforgettable day in the world of athletics.
As the championships came to a close, the 64 nations competing in the event had not only shown their athletic prowess but also demonstrated the unifying power of sport on the global stage.
