Spanish Running Legend Reyes Estévez Breaks M45 Record in Valencia

The Valencia Marathon continues to astonish year after year, earning its reputation as a record-breaking course for both newcomers and seasoned athletes.

This Sunday, amidst the headline-grabbing performances of Sebastian Sawe and Megertu Alemu, and failed attempts at national records by Ibrahim Chakir and Majida Maayouf, Spanish running legend Reyes Estévez delivered a historic achievement.

At the age of 48, Estévez smashed his own Spanish M45 marathon record with an extraordinary performance, ending the Valencia Marathon 2024 in 2:16:26.

A former World Championship medalist and European champion in the 1500m from 1998, Estévez is enjoying a remarkable second career.

Though now competing as a "recreational" runner, his times remain elite. His versatility on the road spans distances from the marathon to the mile, recently sharing the spotlight with Olympic champion Fermín Cacho at a race in Madrid.

Despite his veteran status, the Barcelona native continues to rewrite the Spanish masters record books.

Outpacing the Competition

Estévez’s triumph at the Valencia Marathon wasn’t just a personal victory, it also placed him ahead of Megertu Alemu, the winner of the women’s race. His accomplishment underscores the marathon's reputation as a flat, fast course where athletes of all levels can achieve remarkable feats.

The race has become a magnet for record-breaking attempts, and Estévez added to its growing legend with his standout performance.

A Multifaceted Career

Beyond his achievements in Valencia, Estévez remains a fixture in the Spanish running scene. He frequently participates in events like the Derbi de las Aficiones, where he traditionally leads the Atlético de Madrid team.

This year, he even ventured into triathlon, competing in the Ibiza Sprint Triathlon in the Balearic Islands. Reflecting on his experience, he shared: “I can assure you it was an incredible experience, and a great discovery that has left me wanting more.”

His impressive sixth-place finish in the triathlon’s running segment highlights his enduring athleticism.

As Estévez continues to challenge himself across disciplines, his passion for competition and his ability to inspire both elite and amateur runners remain as strong as ever.