17 year-old Biniam Mehary wins Great Ethiopian Run

17 year-old Biniam Mehary and Asayech Aychew claimed the top prizes at the 24th edition of the Great Ethiopian Run International 10km road race that took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Mehary who was the defending his title, cut the tape first in 28:25 and was followed by his fierce opponent, Adisu Negash in second place in 28:26 with Yismaw Dillu sealing the podium in 28:29.

Nibret Kende and Getachew Masresha finished in fourth and fifth place in respective time of 28:29 and 28:43.

In the women category Ayichew won in 32:13 and was followed in second place by Yenewa Nibret 32:16 with Bosena Mulate completing the podium in 32:27.

Chatu Dida and Guteni Shanko came home in fifth and fourth in a time of 32:27 and 32:34 respectively.

The race course record for men of 28:18 set eight years ago by Deriba Merga and women’s course of 31:17 by World record holder in the 10km, Yalemzerf Yehualaw remain standing.

The colorful event was held under the theme “For Every Child, Nutrition,” and was graced by President Taye Atske Selassie, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kasa and Health Minister Mekades Daba.

The race which was founded by the marathon running legend Haile Gebrselassie was also attended by the World women marathon record holder, Ruth Chepngetich from Kenya who was the chief guest for this year’s edition.

The winners took home cash prizes of 250,000 Ethiopian birr (kshs 267,297)

LEADING RESULTS

10KM MEN

1. Biniam Mehari     (ETH) 28:25
2. Adisu Negash      (ETH) 28:26
3. Yismaw Dillu        (ETH) 28:29
4. Nibret Kende       (ETH) 28:29
5. Getachew Masresha (ETH) 28:43.

10KM WOMEN

1. Asayech Aychew     (ETH) 32:13
2. Yenewa Nibret        (ETH) 32:16
3. Bosena Mulate        (ETH) 32:27
4. Chatu Dida              (ETH) 32:27
5. Guteni Shanko        (ETH) 32:34