Wildschutt continues record-breaking form, takes 23 seconds off SA half-marathon mark

Long-distance runner Adrian Wildschutt made headlines, once again, on Sunday as he shattered the South African record in the men’s 21.1 km event, clocking an impressive time of 59:13.

“Placed 5th overall and ran another South African record. I want to thank everyone in my corner for their unrelenting support; I am truly grateful to God for allowing me to live out my dream day in and day out,” Wildschutt shared on social media.

The race saw Ethiopian runner and former world record holder, Yomif Kejelcha, take the win with a time of 58:02.

Born in Ceres, Western Cape, Wildschutt followed in his brother Nadeel Wildschutt's footsteps at Coastal Carolina University, where they were guided by renowned South African coach Zola (Budd) Pieterse.

READ MORE:

• - Adrian Wildschutt seals World Champs & Olympic spot with new SA 5,000m record
• - Hard work paying off for SA 10,000m record holder Adrian Wildschutt
• - ‘Be consistent in what you do’: SA runner Wildschutt ahead of World Champs

Having recently finished 10th in the 10,000m race at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo last month, Wildschutt is set to lead the South African senior men's team in the 10km race at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships scheduled for 10 January 2026, in Tallahassee.

Wildschutt smashed the previous South African record of 59:36, held by Stephen Mokoka since October 2020 in Poland, by a solid 23 seconds.

In addition to his recent half-marathon achievement, Wildschutt owns impressive records in other distances, including the 3,000m (7:32.99), 5,000m (12:55.02), and 10,000m (26:50.64) on the track, showcasing his dominance in long-distance running.

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