Ethiopia claimed top honors at the Dubai Marathon on Sunday, with Bute Gemechu and Bedatu Hirpa securing victories in the men’s and women’s races, respectively.
Gemechu, 23, captured the men’s title with a time of 2:04:51 in only his second major international marathon. The emerging talent surged ahead to claim the win in a race that saw Ethiopian athletes dominate the leader board.
In the women’s race, Hirpa produced a dramatic finish, overtaking compatriot Dera Dida in the final stretch to clinch victory in a world-leading time of 2:18:27. Hirpa, 25, celebrated the biggest win of her career, while Dida, who finished four seconds behind in 2:18:31, appeared devastated at her narrow defeat.
Both races were marked by a clean sweep for Ethiopian runners, who claimed the top 10 positions in both the men’s and women’s events.
The event unfolded against the backdrop of Dubai’s iconic skyline, adding to the drama and excitement of the day.