The ING Enschede Marathon is Holland’s oldest marathon race and yesterday (23) celebrated its 38th edition in dramatic style, as there was a Kenyan duel which down right to the line.
On an overcast day with a temperature of 15C degrees, and nearly no wind, a group of six Africans stayed together until 36km, after which three Kenyans - . defending champion John Kelai, Sammy Rotich, and Albert Matebor – broke away. Finally, in the last few kilometres it came down just to Kelai and Rotich as their compatriot was dropped, leaving them to battle it out right to the line.
Kelai, who won last year in 2:11:44, lost out in the final metre to Rotich, with both men being given the same time.
Wim van Hemert for the IAAF
38th Enschede Marathon, Sunday 23 April
Enschede, The Netherlands
Men
1. Sammy Rotich (Ken) 2:12:05 PB
2. John Kelai (Ken) 2:12:05
3. Albert Matebor (Ken) 2:12:21 PB
4. Tekeste Nekatibebe (Eth) 2:13:05 PB
5. Noah Kiplagat (Ken) 2:13:16 PB
6. Debele Tekelemedihen (Eth) 2:13:59 PB
7. Bilissa Kelil (Eth) 2::17:06 PB
8. Lambros Zanagas (Gre) 2:20:03
No woman finished in under 3:00:00
