Ethiopia’s Mohamed Esa made history at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, producing the fastest marathon ever run on African soil with a record-breaking time of 2:04:55. This achievement not only shattered the previous course record by over three minutes but also marked a significant triumph for African running.
Esa’s victory was not just about the time; it was about winning in his African homeland. As he mentioned in a post-race interview, his target was to win the race, and the course record was a bonus. Esa also waited at the finish line to congratulate fellow runners, including his idol Eliud Kipchoge, who finished 16th in his first marathon on African soil.
African Running on the Rise
The women’s race also belonged to Ethiopia, with Dera Dida claiming victory in 2:23:18. Although she did not break the course record held by Glenrose Xaba, Dida was pleased with her win and has vowed to return next year to attempt to break the record.
Here are some key takeaways from the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon:
- Mohamed Esa’s record-breaking time of 2:04:55 is the fastest marathon ever run on African soil.
- Esa’s victory marked a significant triumph for African running.
- Dera Dida won the women’s race in 2:23:18.
- Eliud Kipchoge finished 16th in his first marathon on African soil.
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has cemented its position as a major event in the running calendar, with its growing stature pushing towards Abbott World Marathon Major status. As the World Athletics website notes, the event has become a hub for talented athletes from around the world.
