By ALEX ENEBELI

Athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia have dominated the 2026 Enugu City International Marathon, winning the top prizes in the 42-kilometre men’s and women’s categories.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that athletes from different parts of Nigeria and other African countries participated in the marathon.

The 10-kilometre and 42-kilometre races commenced at Mgbemena area of Enugu and ended at the popular Michael Okpara Square, Independence Layout, Enugu.

In the 42-kilometre men’s category, Kenya’s Edwin Kipyogo emerged winner with a time of two hours, 23 minutes and 38 seconds.

Ethiopia’s Habtamu Girma finished second in two hours, 23 minutes and 39 seconds, while his compatriot, Shiferaw Daltiemayo, placed third in two hours, 23 minutes and 41 seconds.

The winners received cash prizes of $15,000, $10,000 and $5,000, respectively.

In the women’s 42-kilometre category, Ethiopia’s Zennebe Aberu emerged winner after completing the race in two hours, 48 minutes and 40 seconds.

Negashu Chatiu finished second in three hours, three minutes and 18 seconds, while Adugna Mahley came third with a time of three hours, six minutes and 32 seconds.

They were also rewarded with the cash of $15,000, $10,000 and $5,000, respectively.

Meanwhile, Nigerians dominated the 10-kilometre category, with Gang Boyi, Davwi Gyany and Pam Joshua finishing first, second and third respectively in the men’s race.

In the women’s 10-kilometre category, Patience Daylop emerged first, followed by Vivien Obadiah in second place and Favour Mwantiyi in third, all Nigerians.

Presenting prizes to the winners, the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Mr Ifeanyi Ossai, congratulated all the athletes for participating in the competition.

Ossai said the state government was committed to making the state a welcoming destination for residents, businesses, visitors and tourists.

He said the marathon was an indication of the government’s determination to position Enugu as a major destination for sports, tourism and investment.

“When I arrived, they wanted me to do a symbolic crossing of the road, but I figured it would be disrespectful to those of you that participated in the race.

“I shouldn’t take your glory by simply jogging across your line. So, for all of you that took the pains and endured the marathon, I say a very big congratulations,” he said.

The deputy governor said the state government had, in the last three years, worked to restore Enugu’s position as a pivotal destination in the Southeast and Nigeria.

He said the marathon demonstrated the government’s readiness to welcome businesses, create opportunities for young people and expand the state’s tourism potential.

Ossai said the government would continue to improve the organisation and standards of the marathon to ensure greater comfort for participants.

He urged participants to return for subsequent editions and encourage their friends and colleagues to participate.

The deputy governor also commended the sponsors and other stakeholders who contributed to the success of the marathon. (NAN)