Thrilling Photo Finish: Kitata's Dramatic Victory at Seville Marathon

Ethiopia's Shura Kitata clinched the Seville Marathon men's title in a photo finish against Asrar Abderehman, both clocking 2:03:59. In the women's race, Alisa Vainio of Finland triumphed over a strong African field, setting a new Finnish national record with a time of 2:20:39.

In a gripping showdown at the Seville Marathon, Ethiopia's Shura Kitata emerged victorious in the men's race after a photo finish with compatriot Asrar Abderehman. Both runners registered a time of 2:03:59, marking the second-best in the event's history.

The race dynamics shifted early on as a pack led by Ethiopian athletes and Kenyan Justus Kipkorir broke away. Capital Degefa and Tsedat Abeje Ayana led proceedings, but by the 25km mark, only an Ethiopian trio remained. A sudden acceleration by Abderehman in the final stretch seemed decisive until Kitata's remarkable last-minute surge secured his win.

In contrast, the women's contest showcased bold strategy and late drama. Alisa Vainio snatched victory with a Finnish national record of 2:20:39. While Ethiopian Mulat Tekle Godu initially led, she faded, allowing 28-year-old Vainio to take the podium, followed by Kenyans Beatrice Cheserek in second and Tekle Godu in third.

(With inputs from agencies.)