Ronald Kipkemoi, running in his first ever marathon, won the 38th edition of the NN Rotterdam Marathon on Sunday (8), clocking 2:05:44 at this IAAF Gold Label road race. His win was unexpected given his inexperience and the presence of exprienced runners like compatriot Laban Korir and Abera Kuma of Ethiopia.
Marius Kipserum, the Rotterdam winner in 2016 was the first to make a move. Then it was Kelkile Gezahegn who took the lead and started to surge. he was followed by Kuma and Mule Wasihun.
At the 40km mark, it was Mule, Kuma, Korir and Kipkemoi in the lead. It was then that Kipkemoi powered ahead, leaving the others with no answer.
I have had setbacks in the past, but now I knew I was ready for it,” he said. “My training in Kaptagat was going very well. I expected stiff competition and so it was. First I saw more experienced runners in the front, but in the end I knew I could win today.” said Kipkemoi.
The women’s race was won by Visiline Jepkesho in 2:23:47. She ran solo from the 16km mark onwards, helped only by pacemakers.
“It’s not the time that I expected, but I’m happy with the victory,” she said,
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