Australian runner Andy Buchanan has made history by smashing the national marathon record in Valencia, Spain. The Bendigo native achieved this remarkable feat by clocking an impressive time of 2:06:22, becoming the first Australian to break the 2:07 barrier. This outstanding performance not only secured him a spot in the record books but also positioned him as a standout athlete in the global marathon scene.

Buchanan’s record-breaking run surpassed the previous record set by Brett Robinson in 2022 by over a minute, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. With an average pace of 2:59 minutes per kilometer, Buchanan’s achievement highlights his significant progress throughout the year, culminating in a well-deserved recognition as the Australian record holder in the marathon discipline.

Reflecting on his accomplishment, Buchanan expressed his disbelief and gratitude for the support he received, emphasizing that he still sees himself as a humble runner from Bendigo. His breakthrough performance not only shattered the national record but also secured his qualification for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo in September 2025, further solidifying his status as a top-tier marathoner.

In a parallel display of excellence, Isobel Batt-Doyle also made her mark by clinching the third spot on the Australian all-time list with a stellar performance at the Valencia Marathon. Batt-Doyle’s impressive time of 2:22:59, which shaved 28 seconds off her personal best, underscored her potential as a rising star in Australian marathon running.

The success of Buchanan and Batt-Doyle reflects the rapid evolution of Australian distance running, with athletes like Sinead Diver and Brett Robinson setting the stage for a new generation of marathoners to excel on the international stage. Buchanan acknowledges the trailblazing efforts of his predecessors, recognizing their influence in inspiring him and his peers to strive for greatness in the sport.

As Buchanan and Batt-Doyle continue to push the boundaries of Australian marathon running, their achievements serve as a testament to the country’s growing prowess in long-distance events. The future looks bright for Australian athletics, with these record-breaking performances paving the way for further success and recognition on the global marathon circuit.