Edinburgh Marathon Festival 2018 draws 35,000 runners as new course record is set
The 2018 edition of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival (EMF), held over the weekend of 26–27 May, attracted one of its largest turnouts ever — with around 35,000 runners from across the UK and around the world descending on Scotland’s capital for a two-day programme of events.
This expansive festival included a full marathon, half marathon, team relay, 10 km, 5 km, and junior races — a range of distances intended to cater for all levels of runners.
Fast times and a new men’s marathon record
At the marquee marathon event, it was Kenyan runner Joel Kipkemboi Kiptoo who claimed the men’s crown — finishing in 2:13:33, smashing the previous course record (established in 2005) by nearly two minutes.
Hot on his heels was American Jeffrey Stein in second place with 2:21:21, while local favourite Michael Crawley secured third, clocking 2:24:43.
In the women’s marathon, Kenyan athlete Caroline Jepchirchir was dominant — leading from the start to finish in 2:47:35.
Scotland’s Shona McIntosh took second place with a time of 2:49:05, and British runner Tracy Millmore came in third at 2:52:14.
Festival atmosphere and participation beyond the marathon
But the weekend was not only about elite marathon times. The sizable field of entrants — many of whom took part in shorter distances such as the 10 km, 5 km or half marathon — helped to turn EMF 2018 into a true mass-participation festival. Organisers described the turnout, plus strong performances, as evidence the event had "become a world-class running festival."
The mixture of competitive runners, charity fund-raisers, families, and recreational participants created a vibrant atmosphere across Edinburgh and neighbouring East Lothian over the two days. The variety of races meant there was something for almost any runner — from serious marathoners aiming for personal bests, to those simply enjoying the camaraderie and challenge of a shorter run.
Looking ahead
With a record field and an outstanding performance by Jemimah Kiptoo in the men’s race and a strong international showing in the women’s, EMF 2018 reinforced its position among the UK’s major road-running events. As organisers open entries for future years, many will be hoping the momentum carries on — for both elite and recreational runners alike.