Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo and Ethiopian Sutume Asefa Kebede set course records in the men’s and women’s categories of the World Athletics Elite Label Road Race, the Tata Steel Kolkata 25K, with a time of 1.11:13 and 1.18:47, respectively.
With win, Ebenyo and Kebede took home a winner’s cheque of $7500 plus a bonus of USD 3000 each in the US $100,000 prize money race. Ebenyo and Togom competed in a thrilling race, with Ebenyo leading the field with 43:01 after crossing 15K. Togom, a two-time world championship silver medalist, remained behind, clocking 59.12 at 19Km. Ebenyo continued to push, breaking the course record and extending the distance. Speaking after the win, an emotional Ebenyo said, “I dedicate this win to my girlfriend, whose support and encouragement helped me reach where I am today.”
On the other hand, Kebede also took all by surprise with her sheer pace and timing. Thrilled after smashing the course record, Kebede said, “I wanted to run faster, but at the end, I am happy with my timing. It is a good course with good weather conditions which made it easier for me.”
