The “21K Buenos Aires Marathon” was held on Sunday, August 25th, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Considered as one of the most prominent half marathons worldwide and the number one in Latin America, it attracted top renown elite athletes, among them 13 Kenyan marathoners who offered an outstanding performance in this latest 35th edition.
Kenyan athletes excelled in this race which started early in the morning with low winter temperatures.
Kenya Gold medallist Ruth Chepngetich established a new record mark in this 21 km circuit with 1 hour, 5 minutes and 58 seconds. She was followed by Ethiopian Alemaddis Eyayu Sisay and Kenyan Joyce Chepkemoi Tele. Kenyan athletes took the top nine places in the race.
Kenyan Cosmas Mwangi Boi enjoyed a slight lead during the course of the men´s race but came in second, as he was surpassed by Ethiopian Gerba Bayata Dibaba during the last decisive sprint.
Kenyan compatriots Richard Yator Kimunyan, Benard Biwott, Gideon Kiprotich Rop and Isaac Kipkemboi reached the 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th position. Argentine Ignacio Erario came in in 7th place as national champion in Argentine soil, having followed closely the African group until the last 4 km of the race.
Medals were awarded by City Mayor, Jorge Macri.
The 25-km-marathon had this year a record number of 25,000 registered participants, including 4000 foreign athletes, and was selected by World Athletics as one of the top 10 races in the world due to its fast course, massive participation, and excellent organization.
This colourful and vibrant event was accompanied by musical groups and artistic shows. Argentina´s capital city again offered a true celebration to sportsmanship and human feat where Kenya played a prominent role.
42 k marathon will take place on September 22nd
