More than 25,000 run Abu Dhabi Marathon as Brigid Kosgei sets new women’s record

UAE: It was a day to remember for Brigid Kosgei as she marked her first appearance at the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon by setting a new women’s record.

More than 25,000 participants from 168 different nationalities took to the streets of the UAE capital.

The Kenyan five-time major marathon champion swept to victory on Saturday with a stunning time of 2:19:15 — a minute quicker than the previous record and nearly five minutes ahead of her closest rival, Hawi Feysa Gejia (2:24:03), as Ethlemahu Sintayehu finished third (2:25:36).

Kosgei said of her victory: “Coming back from an injury last month (at the New York Marathon) and then winning here means a lot to me — especially to break the course record as well. This is my first time here (in Abu Dhabi) and everybody has been great. I hope I will come again next year.”

Eritrean Amare Hailemicael Samson produced a superb display in the men’s category, completing the city course in 2:07:10 to seal an impressive victory, two minutes ahead of his closest challenge, Kenyan Leonard Barsoton (2:09:37), with compatriot Ilham Tanui Ozbilen marking his maiden marathon appearance with a third-place finish (2:10:16).

“I’m very happy, this is my first marathon run (after all),” Samson said. “This is my best time of 2:07:10 and hopefully next time I can get an even quicker time. Today is a good win.”

Ethiopian Halefom Kesay won the 10 km race with a time of 28:27 minutes, while his compatriot Zenashwork Yenw covered the same distance in a time of 33:23 minutes.

The marathon and relay race combined attracted 2,863 participants, the 10km race welcomed 5,320 individuals, with 7,575 participants taking on the 5 km and 9,280 runners in the 2.5 km race.

Aref Hamad Al-Awani, secretary