Kenyan Runner Claims Title In HK Marathon

About 37,000 runners braved rain and high humidity on Sunday morning to take part in the Hong Kong Marathon, which saw the return of overseas athletes after the city lifted most of its Covid-19 restrictions.

Kenya’s Philimon Kiptoo Kipchumba won the race in 2 hours, 10 minutes and 48 seconds. He was followed by Ethiopia’s Limenih Getachew Yizengaw and Senbeta Geza Tadease.

The first woman to cross the finish line was Fantu Eticha Jimma, with Sinke Dessi Biyadgilgn coming in behind her.

Hong Kong record holder Gi Ka-man was the fastest home finisher, completing the race in 2 hours, 24 minutes and 45 seconds.

The event also included a half marathon and a 10-kilometre race.

Before the pandemic, up to 70,000 people took part in the races each year, but the number of participants was capped this year as part of infection-control measures.

The event was cancelled altogether last year because of the pandemic.

The Hospital Authority said that up until 9am, six male and two female runners had been taken to hospital.