Ethiopian athletes Berihu Aregawi and Ababel Yeshaneh claimed victories at the San Silvestre Vallecana, a World Athletics Elite Label road race held on Sunday.
Aregawi, the world 5km record-holder, dominated the men’s race, overcoming Spain’s Mohamed Katir in a rematch from the Budapest World Championships.
Aregawi strategically caught the leading Spanish trio around 700 meters into the race, with the opening kilometer completed in a swift 2:42.
He then asserted his dominance, breaking away from Katir after 4km, securing a convincing win in 27:15. Katir finished second in 27:30, while Aaron Las Heras claimed third place in 27:52.
In the concurrent women’s event, Yeshaneh, along with fellow Ethiopians Asmarech Anley and Likina Amebaw, led the race at a steady pace.
Lonah Chemtai Salpeter, the 2022 world marathon bronze medalist, initially led the pack. However, Salpeter faded after passing 8km, paving the way for an all-Ethiopian podium.
Yeshaneh emerged victorious in a tight battle, finishing in 30:30, followed closely by Amebaw (30:31) and Anlay (30:32). Salpeter settled for fourth place in 31:09.
Reflecting on her win, Yeshaneh expressed her admiration for the large crowd in the Spanish streets and announced her participation in the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in February.
Aregawi, satisfied with his performance, looks forward to competing at the Cross Country Tour Gold meeting in Elgoibar.
