ADDIS Ababa, Ethiopia, Nov 20 – The hopes of the Kenyan duo to become the first foreigners to win the Great Ethiopian 10km Run was dashed, but picked up valuable experience ahead of their career projection.
Victor Mutai and Victor Kipruto finished outside top 40 in a race dominated by home athletes, Abe Gashaw clinching the men’s race in 28 Minutes, 32.3 Seconds while Tigist Katema bossed the women’s race in a time of 32 Minutes, 54.5 Seconds.
HaileMariam Amare came second in the men’s race after clocking 28 Minutes, 34.7 Seconds, beating last year’s winner Gemechu Dida, who settled for third two seconds later.
Meanwhile, in the women’s race, Mestawet Fikiru from Addis Ababa Police was second in 32 Minutes, 55.2 Seconds ahead of Foten Tesfaye representing Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, who came third four seconds later.
Kenyan Mutai said it was a tough encounter but vowed to make amends next Sunday (November 27) when he competes in the Nakuru City Marathon.
“This was tough, it was my first international race and I have picked up many lessons, the experience is what matters. Next Sunday I will be competing at the Nakuru City Marathon and I am looking forward to use the experienced gained here,” the 24-year-old told Capital Sport after the race.
“What I have learned most is I need to do a lot of hill work, so as to get the endurance and I will be okay,” Mutai added.
The winner of the races both men and women walked home with Ksh 342,000 (Br150,000) each.
This year’s event which was the 22nd edition, was graced by Olympic champion in the women’s marathon, Peres Jepchirchir and Kenyan legendary Moses Tanui.
-Alex Isaboke is reporting from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia-
