Daniel Mateiko of Kenya and Tsigie Gebreselama of Ethiopia clinched victories at the prestigious Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, etching their names into the annals of this World Athletics Gold Label road race.
On a foggy morning that added an air of mystery to the event, both runners shattered expectations and personal records, showcasing the depth of talent in long-distance running.
Mateiko, making his mark in his third appearance in Ras Al Khaimah, blazed through the course in a world-leading time of 58:45, securing his victory by a mere five seconds ahead of fellow Kenyan John Korir.
Isaia Lasoi ensured a Kenyan dominance by completing the top three with a time of 58:55, turning the podium into a celebration of Kenyan long-distance prowess.
On the women’s side, Ethiopia’s world cross country silver medalist, Gebreselama, delivered a performance for the ages.
She improved her personal best by an impressive thirty seconds to triumph in 1:05:14, leaving a gap of 30 seconds ahead of Ababel Yeshaneh, the 2020 champion and former world record-holder.
Jackline Sakilu of Tanzania shattered her personal best by over three minutes, setting a national record of 1:06:05, to claim a surprise third place.
This year’s edition, exclusively held on the fast and flat roads of Al Marjan Island, was a testament to the elite athletes’ resilience, as they navigated through limited visibility and challenging weather conditions.
Mateiko, relieved and overjoyed by his victory, dedicated his win to the late marathon world record-holder Kelvin Kiptum, marking the achievement as the pinnacle of his career thus far under the tough conditions.
Gebreselama’s victory was equally significant, as she outpaced a competitive field to underline her status as one of Ethiopia’s brightest stars.
Her performance, especially against the backdrop of pre-race concerns about rivals like Peres Jepchirchir, signals a bright future and ambitions that reach beyond the Paris Olympics, towards setting new records.
The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon once again proved to be a showcase of extraordinary talent and the unyielding spirit of long-distance runners.
As Mateiko and Gebreselama celebrate their victories, their performances are a reminder of the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the world of athletics.
Leading results
Women
1 Tsigie Gebreselama (ETH) 1:05:14
2 Ababel Yeshaneh (ETH) 1:05:44
3 Jackline Sakilu (TAN) 1:06:05
4 Margaret Chelimo Kipkemboi (KEN) 1:06:31
5 Evaline Chirchir (KEN) 1:06:36
Men
1 Daniel Mateiko (KEN) 58:45
2 John Korir (KEN) 58:50
3 Isaia Lasoi (KEN) 58:55
4 Gerba Dibaba (ETH) 59:38
5 Benard Koech (KEN) 59:42
