Kenya’s Alex Matata and Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye emerged victorious at the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon on Saturday, securing wins in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively, in the United Arab Emirates.
Matata clinched the men’s title with an impressive time of 59 minutes and 20 seconds, edging out Ethiopia’s Gemechu Dida, who finished second in 59:25. Kenya’s Isaiah Lasoi secured third place, crossing the finish line just a second later in 59:26.
In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye, a bronze medalist in the 10,000 meters at the 2023 World Championships, dominated the field, winning in 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 52 seconds.
Kenya’s Judy Kemboi took second place with a time of 1:06:34, followed by her compatriot Jesca Chelangat, who secured third in 1:06:53.
The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, known for its flat and fast course, continues to attract some of the world’s top distance runners, setting the stage for intense competition among elite athletes from across the globe.