Sisay Lemma dominates as Alexander Mutiso secures second place in Valencia Marathon

Sisay Lemma, the triumphant 2021 London Marathon winner, once again asserted his dominance in the world of marathon running at the 2023 Valencia Marathon held on Sunday 3 December. Breaking clear from the competitive field that included notable names like Dawit Wolde and Kibiwott Kandie, Lemma took command of the race with a decisive move 7km from the finish line.

Despite being well ahead of the world record pace at the 30km mark, Lemma completed the marathon in 2:01:48, falling just outside Kelvin Kiptum's record from the Chicago Marathon in October. The journey to victory saw Hillary Kipkoech's exceptional pacemaking until the 30km mark when the lead group, featuring Lemma, Wolde, and Kandie, took center stage.

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However, stealing the spotlight in this marathon narrative was the impressive performance of Alexander Mutiso. Demonstrating remarkable strength and endurance, Mutiso finished strongly, securing the second position with an impressive time of 2:03:11. Wolde crossed the line 37 seconds later, claiming the third spot in the marathon standings.

The race dynamics shifted as Kipkoech dropped out after the 30km mark, with Wolde attempting to dictate the pace at the front. Yet, it was Sisay Lemma's strategic move that ultimately shaped the outcome of the marathon. The battle at the front showcased the true essence of marathon racing, with Mutiso's remarkable second-place finish adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

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In contrast, three-time Olympic gold medalist on the track, Kenenisa Bekele, chose a more conservative approach, staying just over 20 seconds behind the lead group at the halfway mark. This decision proved to be wise, as the 41-year-old Ethiopian legend navigated through slowing runners, securing a respectable fourth place with a finishing time of 2:04:19.

The marathon debut of Joshua Cheptegei, the 5000m and 10,000m world record holder, had its challenges. Although Cheptegei led the pack at the halfway point with a time of 60:35, he faced difficulties in the second half, ultimately finishing in 37th place with a time of 2:08:59.

While the men's race was a showcase of Ethiopian prowess, the women's race also saw Ethiopia's dominance. Worknesh Degefa claimed victory with a time of around 2:16, followed by Rio 2016 10,000m champion Almaz Ayana. Hiwot Gebrekidan secured the third position, completing an Ethiopian podium sweep in the women's category at the 2023 Valencia Marathon.