Kenyan marathoners faced a tough challenge in Dubai, trailing behind dominant Ethiopians despite high expectations and strong preparation.
Kenyan marathoners failed to live up to the challenge as the Dubai Marathon unfolded under the bright skies on Sunday.
The event, known for its fierce competition and record-breaking performances, saw the Ethiopians display a masterclass in long-distance running, leaving the Kenyans trailing in their wake.
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In the men's race, Kenya's Douglas Chebii could only manage a seventh-place finish, clocking in at 2:08:15, which was overshadowed by the stunning performance of the Ethiopians.
Silah Kiptoo, another Kenyan hopeful, finished 23rd with a time of 02:36:47, highlighting the gap between the two East African running powerhouses in this event.
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Ethiopia's Addisu Gobena led the charge with a remarkable finish time of 2:05:01, showcasing his class and endurance.
He was closely followed by fellow Ethiopian Dumecha Lemi, who finished the race in 2:05:20.
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Their compatriot, Megersa Dejene, also put up an impressive show, completing the marathon in 2:05:42.
The fourth place was secured by Ethiopian Fufa Abdi, who clocked 2:06:23, further emphasizing the dominance of Ethiopian runners in the marathon.
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The Ethiopians, known for their cohesive race strategies, formed a strong unit early in the race. Their decisive break at the 30km marker was a turning point that left their competitors trailing.
Ethiopians occupied eight of the top spots in the race, with the only non-Ethiopian in the top five being Germany's Fitwi Samule, who finished fifth with a time of 2:06:27.
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In the women's category, the story was much the same, with Ethiopian Tigist Ketema taking the top spot in a time of 02:09:05.
She was followed by Ruti Aga, also from Ethiopia, in a close second with a time of 02:19:29. Defending champion Dera Dida, another Ethiopian, finished third.
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The Kenyan women faced a tough challenge, with reigning Rome Marathon champion Betty Chepkwony failing to complete the race.
She had earlier expressed confidence and readiness to represent her country, being the top sole Kenyan in the women's race.
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"I’m feeling great and I’m ready for the race…I am well prepared for the race and I’m ready to rock the streets of Dubai," Chepkwony had said before the event.
Top 10 men
1. Addisu Gobena 2:05:01
2.Dumecha Lemi 2:05:20
3.Megersa Dejene 2:05:42
4.Fufa Abdi 2:06:23
5.Fitwi Samuel 2:06:27
6.A. Dagnachew 2:06:55
7.Dauglas Chebii 2:08:15
8.Tesfaye Lencho 2:08:25
9.Teshager Baylign 2:08:56
10.Dessie Abebaw 2:09:09