In an impressive display of versatility, Alex Yee has transitioned from elite short course triathlon, where he claimed both the Olympic gold medal and the World Championship title last year, to preparing for his marathon debut. Scheduled for April 27, 2025, the London Marathon will mark a significant milestone in Yee’s career as he ventures into a new distance and discipline.
Despite last year’s triumphs, 2025 presents a different set of challenges for Yee. Engaged in rigorous training for the marathon, he is embracing the new journey with a focus on self-improvement. His goal remains unchanged: to grow and push the limits of his performance, whether in triathlon or marathon running.
Getting Ready for the Marathon
As part of his marathon preparation, Yee participated in the Valencia 10K, where he clocked an impressive time of 28:07. Although he faced setbacks due to illness that delayed plans for a half marathon, Yee recently shared on Instagram that he is getting back on track. “Despite a challenging start to 2025, I recognize that growth happens in discomfort,” he stated, emphasizing his dedication to overcoming obstacles.
Yee’s training includes a collaboration with New Balance to finalize a new race shoe for the London Marathon, and he expressed optimism, noting, “it’s looking fast.” As Yee transitions from triathlon to marathon, his innovative training methods and strategic collaborations suggest he is well-prepared for the upcoming race.
Challenging the Best
The London Marathon will feature one of the most formidable fields in history, headlined by legend Eliud Kipchoge, along with renowned runners like Ethiopia’s Kenenisa Bekele and Olympic champion Tamirat Tola. Competing alongside these elite athletes, Yee aims to achieve a finish time between two hours seven minutes and two hours ten minutes, a benchmark that could establish him as one of the fastest British men in the history of the marathon.
His aspirations align him with other remarkable competitors, such as last year’s London champion Alex Mutiso and record-holders like Jacob Kiplimo. The presence of such formidable competition is sure to push Yee to elevate his performance, further enhancing the excitement surrounding his marathon debut.
Aussie Star Follows Suit
Joining Yee on his journey is Australian triathlete Steve McKenna, who is also breaking away from triathlon to focus on running. McKenna, who previously claimed victories at IRONMAN New Zealand and IRONMAN Australia, is set to compete in various marathons, including the Adelaide and Gold Coast Marathons. He emphasizes the need to achieve personal best times before fully committing back to professional triathlon, understanding that age may limit future opportunities.
With aspirations to run under 2:20, McKenna shares a common goal with Yee: pushing boundaries and testing limits. As they navigate this new terrain, both athletes will be examining how their cross-disciplinary experiences improve their performance and adaptability in endurance sports.
A Bright Future Ahead
Both Alex Yee and Steve McKenna represent a new wave of athletes willing to explore the boundaries of their capabilities. As they prepare for their respective marathon challenges, the intersection of the worlds of triathlon and long-distance running provides fresh narratives and exciting developments in endurance sports. Their journeys will undoubtedly captivate fans and sports enthusiasts alike, showcasing not just their athletic prowess but also their commitment to personal growth.
As the marathon world watches eagerly, Yi’s and McKenna’s stories serve as motivation for those aspiring to conquer their own challenges. Whether it’s through rigorous training or the pursuit of personal records, the dedication shown by these athletes demonstrates the ever-evolving landscape of endurance racing. Best of luck to both Alex and Steve as they take on their respective marathon competitions and continue to make their mark in the world of athletics.
