Ethiopian athletes enjoyed another scintillating weekend
Addis Ababa, May 29, 2023 (FBC) – Ethiopian athletes have lit up the weekend with victories in various meetings in different athletics events across the world in both women’s and men’s races.
Over the past weekend Four Ethiopian runners claimed top prizes at this year’s Tartan Ottawa International Marathon.
In men’s race, Yihunilign Adane came in first overall with a time of 2:08:22, followed by compatriots Gebretsadik Abraha at 2:09:13 and Abdi Ali Gelchu in third with a time of 2:10:38. Meanwhile, Waganesh Mekasha toppled the women’s race, clocking 2:24:47, where Malindi Elmore of Kelowna, B.C., finished with a time of 2:27:4.1 ahead of Germany’s Melat Kejeta who finished third clocking 2:27:50.1.
It was also a world-leading mark and meeting record for Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay, who won the 1500m in 3:54.03 at the Wanda Diamond League meeting on Sunday (28) in Rabat, Morocco.
The world 5000m champion went out hard, covering the first lap in 1:01.3 before reaching 800m in 2:03.6. Fellow Ethiopian Birke Hayelom, aged 17, was close behind at this stage, but Gudaf gradually extended her lead in the second half.
By the time the world indoor record-holder entered the home straight, there was no doubt about the outcome of the race, and Gudaf went on to win in 3:54.03, an African all-comers’ record.
She led an Ethiopian 1-2-3-4 with Freweyni Hailu claiming second place in 3:57.65, just 0.01 ahead of Birke Haylom, who set an African U18 best. Worknesh Mesele was fourth (4:01.81).
“This was my first outdoor competition of the season, so I’m more than happy with the time and the victory,” said Tsegay. “I’m already in great shape and injury free. So far, all is perfect.”
On the other hand, the athlete Getnet Wale, who participated in the men’s 3000 hurdles, claimed 2nd spot, clocking 8:5:15.