Kipkemboi wins Istanbul Marathon title

After coming short in last year's edition of the Istanbul Marathon, Robert Kipkemboi, returned for this year's edition to bag the title in a time of 2:10.18. 

The Kenyan finished nine seconds ahead of Kenyan-born Bahraini Marius Kimutai who went into the race as the fastest athlete on the field.

It was, however, heartbreak of sorts for Kipkemboi as immediately after the race, organisers had first indicated that he had broken the course record with the winning time indicated as 2:09.37 seconds. The course record of 2:09.44 is held by Daniel Kibet, set in 2019. 

Sila Kiptoo ensured Kenya bagged two medals in the men's race, finishing third in 2:11.42.

“It was a good race, the pacemakers did well. I hoped for a course record, but it became humid at around 30km and then I concentrated on winning," said the 34 year-old winner.

“Knowing the course from last year when I was second I knew about the tough final section and actually I adjusted my training to be prepared for this climb to the finish."

Kipkemboi, who ran five seconds quicker in Istanbul than a year ago, thinks he can improve his 2:07:09 personal best in the future. “After a break I will start preparing for a spring marathon. On a flat course I think I can run 2:06."

In the women’s race Ethiopian Sechale Dalasa won the race in 2:25.54 jn a dominant performance that was a personal best mark. 

Compatriot Melesech Tsegaye was second with a time of 2:29.01 while Ethlemahu Sintayehu ensured an Ethiopian sweep with a 2:31.38 third place denying Kenya's Stacy Ndiwa a podium place as she finished fourth in 2:31:53

 Compatriot Judith Jerubet clocked 2:32:29 to complete the top five places while Mercy Kwambai settled for seventh in 2:39:17.

Men

🥇 Robert Kipkemboi 🇰🇪 2:10:18

🥈 Marius Kimutai 🇧🇭 2:10:27

🥉 Sila Kiptoo 🇰🇪 2:11:42

Women

🥇 Sechale Dalasa 🇪🇹 2:25:54 (PB)

🥈 Melesech Tsegaye 🇪🇹 2:29:01

🥉 Ethlemahu Sintayehu 🇪🇹 2:31:38 (debut)