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Ugandan long-distance runner Stephen Kissa outpaced defending champion, Daniel Ebenyo from Kenya, to win the men’s race at the ninth edition of Tata Steel World 25K held on Sunday, December 15 in Kolkata, India.
Kissa emerged victorious in the men’s category with an impressive time of 1 hour 12 minutes and 29 seconds.
Kenya’s Daniel Ebenyo and Anthony Kipchirchir came in the 2nd and 3rd spots, respectively.
“Congratulations to Stephen Kissa for his remarkable victory at the Tata Steel World 25KM Run in Kolkata, India finishing in an impressive time of 1:12:33. Well done to Daniel Ebenyo and Anthony Kipchirchir of Kenya for securing the 2nd and 3rd spots. An incredible display by all,” said the Uganda Athletics Federation in a congratulatory message on its X platform.
Kissa, who specialises in the 5000 metres, finished 52nd at the 2017 World Cross Country Championships and competed at the 2017 World Championships 5000 metres without reaching the final. The next year, he finished 8th in the 5000 metres at the 2018 African Championships.
“I am very happy. India is a very nice country. It is my third time in India. When I was running, I thought we would make the world record. I had two options: either the first place or should I follow the first group. After the first 2 km, I saw my body responding well and so I ran with the first group. I realized that I ran well today,” he told Athleticsillustrated.com.
In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Sutume Kebede retained the women’s crown.
Kebede claimed the top spot with a stellar time of 1 hour 19 minutes and 17 seconds.
“I am very happy to win (here) again. I wanted to break the course record, but was a little tired of travelling. I am training for the next year and will participate in the marathons,” she told Athleticsillustrated.com.
The Tata Steel World 25K is one of the most prestigious road-running events in India, bringing together elite athletes and passionate amateurs.
This year, the presence of Sol Campbell, the Arsenal legend, as the event ambassador, added an inspirational touch to the proceedings. Campbell, known for his resilience on the football field, cheered on participants and expressed his admiration for the vibrant spirit of Kolkata as it embraced the run.