KIGALI, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan athletes asserted their dominance at the 20th edition of the Kigali International Peace Marathon, held on Sunday in Rwanda's capital.
In the men's full marathon, Kenya's Laban Kipngetich Korir claimed victory with a time of 2 hours, 18 minutes, and 26 seconds, with compatriot Kipkirui Langat finishing second in 2:19:00.
The women's full marathon was also won by a Kenyan, Teresiah Kwamboka Omosa, who clocked 2:37:12. She was trailed by Ethiopia's Kebene Chala, who finished in 2:37:29.
In the men's half marathon, Derrick Chege Njoroge of Kenya took first place in 1:05:23, ahead of Gilbert Kamutwire of Uganda, who finished second with 1:07:02.
Host nation Rwanda saw victory in the women's half marathon, as Florence Niyonkuru crossed the finish line in 1:13:57. Her compatriot Adeline Musabyeyezu followed in 1:14:18, rounding out a strong showing for the home crowd.
"I am very grateful, and I also want to express my appreciation to the organizers because the race has improved compared to last year. The arrangements were much better this time. Last year was quite crowded, but this year everything seemed well-prepared," Korir told reporters after his win.
Held under the theme "Bring the World to Kigali and Take Kigali to the World," the event attracted over 14,000 participants from 35 countries and regions, according to organizers.
The Kigali International Peace Marathon is an annual event organized by the Rwanda Athletics Federation, in partnership with the Ministry of Sports, aiming to promote peace, unity, and athletic excellence through sport. ■
