Kenya And Ethiopia Take the Spotlight At The 2026 Enugu City Marathon Victory

The 10-kilometer and 42-kilometer races, which started in Enugu’s Mgbemena neighborhood and ended at the well-known Michael Okpara Square in Independence Layout, drew competitors from all over Nigeria and other African nations.

Edwin Kipyogo of Kenya won the men’s 42-kilometer race after finishing in two hours, 23 minutes, and 38 seconds.

In two hours, 23 minutes and 39 seconds, Habtamu Girma of Ethiopia came in second, and Shiferaw Daltiemayo, a fellow countryman, finished third in two hours, 23 minutes and 41 seconds.

Cash awards of $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000 were given to the top three winners.

Zennebe Aberu of Ethiopia won the women’s 42-kilometer race with a time of two hours, 48 minutes, and forty seconds, Adugna Mahley finished third in three hours, six minutes, and thirty-two seconds, while Negashu Chatiu finished second in three hours, three minutes, and eighteen seconds.

Additionally, they were given $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000 in cash prizes.

In the meantime, Nigerian athletes dominated the 10-kilometer men’s division, with Pam Joshua, Davwi Gyany, and Gang Boyi placing first, second, and third, respectively.

Speaking about the marathon’s future, Ifeanyi Ossai, the deputy governor of Enugu State, stated that the state government is dedicated to raising the event’s caliber with every iteration.

“Our Commissioner for Youth and Sports is already ready to keep improving on what we’ve done. You will agree with me that for each successive marathon we come for in Enugu, the standard improves.

“So, for me, as government, keeping the standard and ensuring the growth is important. For you being here, I want to congratulate you. I want to thank you for choosing Enugu as a place, and ask you to tell your friends.

“In the next edition, we want to see the number quadruple. We have to be awesome,” Ossai said.

Congratulations to Enugu State for successfully hosting a peaceful and inspiring marathon event. Your dedication to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants has truly made this race a memorable occasion. We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners—your determination and hard work have truly paid off. Here’s to many more successful and harmonious sporting events in the future!