93-Year-Old Completes Rome Marathon: Antonio Rao Sets New Record!

ROME – The 2026 Rome Marathon wasn’t just about elite competition and record times; it was a celebration of endurance, dedication, and the sheer joy of running. Among the 36,000 participants who traversed the historic course from the Colosseum to the Circus Maximus was 93-year-classic Antonio Rao, completing his 31st Rome Marathon. Rao finished the 26.2-mile race in 7 hours, 9 minutes, and 21 seconds, more than five hours after Kenyan Asbel Rutto’s winning time of 2:06:32.

The remarkable feat by Rao, a native of Calabria, Italy, resonated throughout the event and beyond. “It was tough, but here I am at the finish line of this extraordinary race,” Rao said, visibly moved, in a video captured by race organizers. “I want to thank the pace-making group who encouraged and accompanied me throughout the course. I am so happy.”

A Milestone for Nonagenarians

Rao’s accomplishment isn’t just about longevity; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in endurance sports. Although some reports suggest Rao has participated in every edition of the Rome Marathon since its inception in 1983, Running Magazine noted last year that he did miss some races in the 1990s and 2000s. Nevertheless, his consistency is astounding.

In 2023, Rao set a record for the over-90 age group, finishing the marathon in 6 hours, 14 minutes, and 44 seconds – a time previously unheard of for a marathoner of that age. This year, while he surpassed the seven-hour mark for the first time, his 7:09:21 still represents an incredible achievement. He had previously completed the race in 6:54 in 2024 and 6:44:16 in 2025.

Rao’s dedication to running extends beyond the marathon. He also completed the Rome-Ostia half marathon in 2 hours, 54 minutes, and 40 seconds last year, demonstrating his continued commitment to the sport. His participation in the 2027 Rome Marathon is already eagerly anticipated.

The 2026 Rome Marathon itself was a resounding success, drawing runners from 166 countries. Kenyan athletes dominated the elite competition, with Asbel Rutto repeating his 2024 victory and Pascaline Kibiwot setting a new course record of 2:22:44 in the women’s race. Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, representing Athletica Vaticana, also completed the marathon in 4 hours, 1 minute, and 44 seconds, adding a unique element to the field.

The event also included a poignant moment of remembrance with “A Minute of Noise” organized by the Giulia Cecchettin Foundation, a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about violence against women and the importance of speaking out.

Rao’s story, however, stands out as a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring human spirit. It’s a reminder that age is often just a number, and that with dedication and passion, anything is possible. His achievement is particularly inspiring given the challenging course, which winds through the heart of Rome, offering both breathtaking views and demanding hills.

For those inspired by Rao’s story, the Rome Marathon offers a variety of race distances and levels of competition. The event continues to grow in popularity, attracting both seasoned marathoners and first-time runners. The marathon’s organizers are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, and the city of Rome provides a stunning backdrop for this annual celebration of running.

The 2026 edition also marked the first stop on the new European Marathon Classics circuit, further solidifying its position as a premier international running event. With a record number of participants and a diverse field of runners, the Rome Marathon continues to be a showcase for the sport and a celebration of human achievement.

Antonio Rao’s next challenge remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his story will continue to inspire runners of all ages and abilities for years to come. He embodies the spirit of the Rome Marathon – a celebration of endurance, dedication, and the joy of pushing one’s limits.

The 32nd edition of the Acea Run Rome The Marathon is scheduled for March 2027. Runners interested in participating can uncover more information and registration details on the official race website.