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Kenyan marathoner Paul Lonyangata triumphs in Honolulu Marathon, clinching victory after serving a suspension, earning millions in prize money
Once embroiled in controversy, Kenyan marathoner Paul Lonyangata emerged victorious at the 50th edition of the Honolulu Marathon held on Sunday marking a remarkable comeback after serving a 19-month ban imposed by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).
In a surprising turn of events, Lonyangata, known for his historic victory alongside his wife in the 2017 Paris Marathon, found himself banned from the sport in February 2022 after admitting to using the prohibited substance Furosemide.
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The diuretic, commonly used to treat medical conditions like fluid retention and swelling, is included in the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of prohibited substances due to its potential misuse by athletes to mask performance-enhancing drugs and induce rapid weight loss.
Lonyangata's ban came after an out-of-competition sample he provided on September 21,2021 yielded an Adverse Analytical Finding for Furosemide, leading to his notification on October 19, 2021.
In a show of transparency and responsibility, Lonyangata promptly admitted to the use of the prohibited substance, acknowledging his mistake.
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After serving his suspension, Lonyangata returned to training with renewed determination and a burning desire to redeem himself.
His dedication and resilience were on full display when he secured victory at the Honolulu Marathon, one of the most prestigious races in the world.
The 30-year-old Kenyan, who had previously clinched back-to-back Paris Marathon titles in 2017 and 2018 and finished third in 2019, entered the Honolulu Marathon as the second-fastest athlete on the entry list.
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With a personal best time of 2:06:10 from the 2017 Paris Marathon and a season best of 2:09:18 from the Changsha Marathon in October, Lonyangata was a formidable contender.
In a race filled with anticipation, Lonyangata seized control after the pacemaker, Dickson Chumba, dropped off at the halfway point. With a bold move, he catapulted from fourth place to a commanding 22-second lead.
Maintaining his unyielding pace, Lonyangata surged solo to cross the finish line in a triumphant time of 2:15:42.
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Reflecting on his victory, Lonyangata expressed his elation, stating, "This race is, I think, very big for me because it was the end of the year. (I am) so happy to win this race because I close my year in style," he said.
His joy was palpable as he received the haku lei crown, symbolizing his triumphant return to the sport.
Eritrea's Filmon Ande secured the second spot with a time of 2:16:01, while Reuben Kiprop Kerio, a three-time Kosice Marathon champion, settled for third place in 2:17:32.
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The race also featured impressive performances from United States' Andrew Wacker, who finished fourth with a time of 2:23:39, and last year's Tokyo Marathon champion, Shunsuke Matsui of Japan, who secured fifth place in 2:24:48.
Lonyangata's victory not only brought him personal redemption but also a substantial financial reward.
He earned $25,000 (Ksh 3.8million) in prize money and a solid gold medal valued at $15,000 (Ksh 2.3million)
While Lonyangata celebrated his remarkable comeback, the marathon course record of 2:07:59 set four years ago by Titus Ekiru from Kenya remained unbroken.
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