Ethiopia smashes multiple records at 2023 Valencia Marathon
In an impressive display of athletic prowess, Ethiopian runners showcased their dominance in the 2023 Valencia Marathon held on December 3.
Ethiopian athletes not only demonstrated their dominance but also exhibited resilience and skill on the international stage. The event saw remarkable performances, particularly in the men's category, Fanabc reports.
The 2023 Valencia Marathon will be remembered as a showcase of Ethiopia's prowess in long-distance running, solidifying its standing in the global athletic community.
Sisay Lemma’s record-breaking run
Leading the charge was Ethiopian athlete Sisay Lemma, who stormed through the marathon with a remarkable time of 2:01:48. This outstanding achievement secured Lemma the title of the 4th fastest man in marathon history. The Ethiopian contingent continued to excel, with Dawit Wolde finishing in the 3rd position with a commendable time of 2:03:48.
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“I feel great to win in Valencia. Once I passed the half marathon I realised that I was running at a record pace and that I had the strength to run and beat the race record. It was my first time in Valencia. I’m very happy to have beaten the record. It’s a very fast course. At km 15 I tried to go at a world record pace but the pacemakers were being irregular at that pace and I decided not to go for the world record but for the race record. At km 25 I realised that I wasn’t going to be able to go under 2:01,″ he is quoted by valenciaciudaddelrunning.com.
Kenenisa Bekele sets records at 41
Notably, Kenenisa Bekele, at 41 years old, made history by breaking the marathon master’s world record (M40). Despite finishing in the 4th position, Bekele's remarkable time of 2:04:19 underscored the resilience and skill that have defined his career.
Worknesh Degefa’s stellar performance
The women's elite race witnessed an equally impressive performance by Ethiopian athlete Worknesh Degefa. Clocking a strong time of 2:15:51, Degefa secured the top position, showcasing her determination and skill on the marathon course.
“First of all, thank you for the invitation. I enjoyed running here and I am very happy with the result. From the 30th kilometre onwards I started to push hard, running my race and not looking at Ayana. I decided to run my race without looking at my rivals. The pacemakers were not everything I was expecting. They were very irregular, so I decided to run alone,” she is quoted.
The Ethiopian dominance continued as Almaz Ayana and Howot Gebrekidan claimed the 2nd and 3rd positions, completing a clean sweep of the women's elite competition. Ayana finished with a time of 2:16:22, while Gebrekidan crossed the finish line in 2:17:59.
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