ATHLETES from East Africa dominated this year’s landmark fifth edition of the Durban International Marathon which also saw two newly crowned champions.

Kenya’s Felix Kiprotich and Ethiopia’s Emane Seifu Hayile claimed victory in a thrilling display of endurance and strategy in the men’s and women’s races respectively.

The marathon, which boasted a R350 000 prize pool, saw thousands of athletes take part in what was also a Comrades Marathon qualifier.

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Kiprotich broke away from the lead bunch at the 20km mark and held off a late charge from Zimbabwe’s Godwin Katakura (2:11:02) and Blessing Waison (2:11:51) who finished second and third, to win in 2:10:45.

“The Durban route was fantastic, it was fast and well-organised. Winning here means so much to me,” the 39-year-old said after the race. “I believed I could have challenged the course record, but I was running alone for so long, I had to focus on maintaining my pace.”

Meanwhile in the women’s race, Hayile, the 50km world record holder, outlasted Namibia’s Alina Armas (2:32:34), in a gripping duel, pulling away at 37km to win in 2:31:45, thus becoming the first Ethiopian woman to claim the title.

Zimbabwe’s Fortunate Chidzivo (2:33:30) rounded out the podium.

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Steve Mkasi, chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), also praised those in attendance.

“This year’s marathon was a testament to Durban’s spirit. The elite fields delivered world-class performances, while our amateur runners brought great passion. Together, they made our fifth edition the best yet. We are grateful to our key commercial partners, their support has helped grow this race in a short space of time. The future looks bright and I believe this race will only grow from strength to strength,” Mkasi added.

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