Ethiopia Dominates Tokyo Marathon with Impressive Wins in Both Categories
Ethiopia dominated the Tokyo Marathon, winning both categories. Tadese Takele won the men’s race with a time of 2:03:23, while Sutume Asefa Kebede defended her title in the women’s race at 2:16:31. Joshua Cheptegei finished ninth, and Paula Radcliffe returned to the marathon scene, completing the race in 2:57:26.
Ethiopia showcased its dominance at the Tokyo Marathon, clinching victories in both the men’s and women’s races. Tadese Takele secured the men’s title with a remarkable time of 2 hours, 3 minutes, and 23 seconds. He broke away from the leading group with four kilometers remaining, marking his first major marathon victory and lowering his personal best by a second. His fellow countryman, Deresa Geleta, finished second at 2:03:51, while Kenya’s Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich placed third at 2:04:00.
In the women’s competition, Sutume Asefa Kebede of Ethiopia successfully defended her title, crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 31 seconds. She was followed closely by Kenya’s Winfridah Moraa Moseti in second place at 2:16:56, with Hawi Feysa from Ethiopia completing the podium in third at 2:17:00.
Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda, an esteemed double Olympic champion, participated in his second marathon. He finished in ninth place with a time of 2:05:59, after debuting in the marathon at Valencia two years prior. Additionally, the former women’s world record-holder, Paula Radcliffe, made her marathon return at age 51, completing the race in 2:57:26. Radcliffe has announced her intention to compete in the Boston Marathon next month.
The Tokyo Marathon witnessed Ethiopian athletes dominate both the men’s and women’s races, with Tadese Takele and Sutume Asefa Kebede emerging as champions. Noteworthy performances from Joshua Cheptegei and Paula Radcliffe also highlighted the event, underscoring the depth of talent present. Ethiopia’s continued success in long-distance running solidifies its reputation in this competitive field.
Original Source: news.rthk.hk
