KENYA SHINES AT THE 14TH ROME MARATHON HELD ON SUNDAY 16TH MARCH, 2008

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In a One-Two-Three sweep of what has now become one of the key calendar sporting event in Italy, Kenyan men athletes won the 14th Rome Marathon in style. They romped to the finish line to the thrill and cheer of thousands of Italian fans and tourists who lined the carefully selected scenic marathon route. Kenyans fielded one of the largest single entry of athletes numbering over twenty. They ran a tactical race maintaining an unchallenged lead and outpacing other runners with ease as they snaked their way through some of the most famous and scenic sites to a triumphant finish line at the coloseum. Kenya took the first six positions, while their perennial adversaries from Ethiopia only managed eighth position. The Race was won by Mr. Jonathan Yego with a time of 2:09:58, followed by Mr. Philip Sanga who clocked 2:10:02 and in third position was Mr. Henry Kapkyai with 2:10:16. In the hard fought women’s race, compatriot Ms. Flora Kandie managed a fourth position with a time of 2:32:39, a marked improvement from last year’s timings. In a clear mild day, the three winners climbed on the Winner’s Podium to receive their medals and pose for photographs while proudly displaying the Kenya national flag. At hand to cheer and congratulate the winning Contingent were staff of the Kenya Embassy, Rome and a large number of Kenyans residing in Italy. Kenyans have confounded many with their traditionally winning streak but today’s performance was indeed exemplary.

 

KENYA EMBASSY
ROME, ITALY
16TH MARCH, 2008