Ethiopians dominate in Dubai Marathon 2024 despite fierce competition

The prominent Dubai Marathon 2024 kicked off on Sunday at 6 am in Jumeirah, luring both elite and recreational runners from across the globe looking to set personal best times. The annual marathon is a major event in the emirate and typically takes place in January.

The marathon course is a flat, fast one, making it attractive to runners holding different preferences. In addition to the marathon, the event also includes a 10K race and a 4K fun run. There are also several satellite events and even a race for families.

The Dubai Marathon is a great opportunity for runners to experience the culture and beauty of the vibrant city and to challenge themselves in a race of global importance. Ahead of the event on January 7, the Road Transports Authority had announced road closures.

Ethiopians occupy eight of top 10 spots in Dubai Marathon

Ethiopian marathoners dominated the race this year, delivering record-breaking performances despite fierce competition. In the men’s category, Addisu Gobena showcased his class and endurance as he finished the race in 2:05:01, shared ‘Girmachew Kebeda‘ on X.

Fellow Ethiopian Dumecha Lemi closely followed Gobena in the race, hitting the finish line in a remarkable 2:05:20. Their compatriot, Megersa Dejena, also put up an impressive show at the marathon, finishing the race in 2:05:42.

Fufa Abdi, another Ethiopian, secured the fourth spot, clocking 2:06:23, further emphasising the dominance of Ethiopian runners in the marathon. Runners from the country are known for their cohesive race strategies. They formed a strong unit early in the race.

Interestingly, Ethiopian marathoners occupied eight of the top 10 spots in the Dubai race this year. Fitwi Samuel from Germany is the only non-Ethiopian runner in the top five, clocking 2:06:27. Read on for the names of male runners occupying the top 10 spots.

Dubai Marathon 2024 top 10 runners (male)

1. Addisu Gobena 2:05:01

2. Dumecha Lemi 2:05:20

3. Megersa Dejena 2:05:42

4. Fufa Abdi 2:06:23

5. Fitwi Samuel 2:06:55

6. A. Dagnachew 2:06:55

7. Dauglas Chebii 2:08:15 (from Kenya)

8. Tesfaye Lencho 2:08:25

9. Teshager Baylign 2:08:56

10. Dessie Abebaw 2:09:09

The story’s much the same in the female category. Ethiopian Tigist Ketema occupied the top spot, clocking 2:16:07. Ruti Aga from the same country finished second, in 2:19:29, and defending champion Dera Dida, also an Ethiopian, came in third.

The official X account of ‘adidas‘ shared Ketema’s unofficial record-breaking debut time.