The Bangsaen21 Half Marathon witnessed a spectacular display of Kenyan dominance as Gladys Chepkurui and Mathew Kimeli claimed top honours in the women’s and men’s categories, respectively, at this World Athletics Platinum Label road race held in the dynamic Thai city of Chonburi on Sunday.

Gladys Chepkurui showcased her running prowess with an outstanding performance, completing the women’s race in 1:09:46. Braving challenging weather conditions, Chepkurui surged ahead, finishing 17 seconds ahead of compatriot Sheila Chepkirui. In a strategic race, Chepkurui overcame an early deficit and left her competitors behind, ultimately passing the finish line victorious.

The women’s competition also saw Angela Tanui, the 2021 Amsterdam Marathon champion, securing the third spot in 1:11:08, while former world record-holder Ruth Chepngetich finished fourth with a time of 1:11:51.

In the men’s event, Mathew Kimeli demonstrated tactical brilliance, crossing the finish line in 1:03:39 to claim the top spot. Kimeli, part of a formidable eight-runner pack, faced stiff competition from Tsegaye Getachew, the Ethiopian standout and last year’s Amsterdam Marathon winner. After a strategic surge by Getachew and Amos Kipruto, the reigning London Marathon champion, Kimeli staged an impressive comeback, securing a six-second lead over Getachew for the win.

Amos Kipruto secured the third position in the men’s race, clocking in at 1:03:52, while Nobert Kipkoech Kigen of Kenya finished fourth in 1:04:35, further underlining the Kenyan runners’ dominance in long-distance racing.