Ethiopian athlete Shura Kitata wins London Marathon

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - Ethiopia's Shura Kitata won the men's race while Kenya's Brigid Kosgei defended the women's title in the 40th London Marathon on Sunday.

Kitata completed the race after a thrilling sprint finish in two hours, five minutes and 41 seconds.

The 24-year-old became the first Ethiopian to win the annual event in last seven years.

Kenya's Vincent Kipchumba, trailed only a second behind Kitata, and Sisay Lemma from Ethiopia came third, four seconds behind the leader in men's category.

In the women's race Kosgei from Kenya, the winner of the 2019 marathon, sealed a comfortable victory in two hours, 18 minutes and 58 seconds.

The 26-year-old was followed by American runner Sara Hall who crossed the line in 2 hours, 22 minutes and one second.

Kenya's Ruth Chepngetich came third by finishing in 2 hours, 22 minutes and five seconds.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali congratulated Kitata for his achievement.

"Outstanding results by the #Ethiopia team in the #LondonMarathon. Congratulations Shura Kitata in winning the 2020 London Marathon men’s race. My appreciation to all elite runners raising Ethiopia’s flag wherever you go. Your country is proud of you," he said on Twitter.

The marathon, originally due in April, had been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.