By our correspondent
Kenyans have proved once again their prowess in international Marathon as Emmanuel Naibet on Saturday won the elite race of the Abuja International Marathon, while four other Kenyans finishing among the top three in the male and female categories.
Our correspondent reports that Naibet breasted the tape after two hours 13 minutes 45 seconds to win the race over 42.195 kilometres involving international athletes.
His fellow Kenyans Bernard Sang came in second after arriving at the finishing line four seconds later in the extremely tight race.
Another Kenyan was close on his heels, with Ezekiel Koech Keprop arriving two seconds later to finish third.
In the women’s race, Kenya’s Ruth Jebet was the winner after a time of 2:36.08, beating compatriot Mercy Kwambai who clocked 2:38.17.
Ethiopia’s Dida Negasa finished third to actually proved that Kenyan alone can not take the central stage of the event after returning a time of 2:40.16.
The Director Race and Head Media and publicity of the Abuja international Marathon, Mr Olukayode Thomas confirmed that the results were subject to ratification by the event’s Technical Committee.
Speaking with our correspondent at the event Mrs Suzanna Ogunmiloyo, the Managing Director of Unicentral Resources Management the organiser of the event in partnership with Federal Capital Territory Administration confirmed that 2023 Abuja international Marathon was encouraging and successful with glamour, fun-filled and winners.
Equally speaking at the event, Hajia Hadiza Mohammed Kabir the secretary social Development Services of the FCTA and the Chairperson Local Organizing Committee LOC commended the Minister of FCT, Minister of State FCT and the Permanent Secretary Mr Adesola Olusade , the management Unicentral Resources Management and FCTA management staff that were involved in the organization and implementation of the 2023 international Marathon Race which has put Federal Capital Territory, Abuja into the world map
No doubt , this is the first Abuja International Marathon with different categories of races; the 5km secondary school students, 10km male and female and 42.195 kilometres male and female definitely, it must continue.