This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
On a hot day at Lewa Conservancy in Isiolo County, Kenya, Emma Kiruki and Duncan Kipkurui proved their determination and endurance by winning the 20th edition of the Safaricom Marathon on June 29, 2019.
Emma Kiruki, a mother of one who also won the women’s race in 2008, clocked 2 hours, 50.31 minutes for victory. She attributed her win to her ability to run her own race and persevere through the tough conditions.
With a personal best of two hours and twenty-nine minutes, which she achieved at the Taiwan marathon in 2010, Kiruki expressed her desire to participate in more marathon races this year.
Meanwhile, Duncan Kipkurui, 34, overcame various challenges, including financial difficulties and a five-hour traffic jam, to emerge the new champion in a star-studded event. He broke off from the leading pack at the 25th kilometre and maintained a significant lead in the last five kilometres, winning in 2:20.04.
Pre-race favourite and six-time former champion Philemon Baaru failed to finish the race, which attracted 1,400 runners from over 20 countries.
Former Paris Half Marathon champion Morris Munene won the marathon half marathon race in 1:06.06, followed by John Elimlim (1:06.29) and Mike Boit (1:06.57).
Additionally, Miriam Nakitari from Embu won the women’s half marathon in 1:15.11, overcoming a strong challenge from Kenya Police athlete Caroline Nyaguthii, who emerged third.
