Yangon, Myanmar, 27th January 2013 – The crisp January air was just right for the participants of the inaugural Yoma Yangon International Marathon, Sunday. More than 1,000 local and overseas participants took to the streets of Yangon, Myanmar as city residents cheered them on from the sidelines.
Kenya’s Joseph Gitau Kitaku and Myanmar’s Mi Mi Aye stole the show, each pocketing the US$2,500 first prize in the men’s and women’s races, respectively.
Joseph Gitau Kitaku crossed the finish line in a time of 2:19:13. Second place in the men’s event went to Onesmus Muindi, also from Kenya, who said he could not keep up with Kitaku towards the last 5km of the race. He came in at 2:19:41. Third place went to Thaung Aye in a time of 2:27:12.
“This is a great day for me. It was a fantastic day and very well organised. I will definitely come back next year to defend my title,” said Joseph Gitau Kikaku.
In the women’s race, Mi Mi Aye finished comfortably at a time of 2:46:07. She was closely followed by her compatriots Pa Pa and Nilar San, who came in at 2:48:11 and 2:49:53 respectively.
Mi Mi Aye looked strong and determined as she started to open the gap after the 40km mark. The 31 year old did not look back as she claimed the grand prize.
The races started and finished at People’s Park, situated one block from Shwe Dagon Pagoda, one of Yangon’s most iconic landmarks.
‘Step forward’
“This is the very significant event,” Serge Pun, of Title Sponsor Yoma Strategic Holdings, said ahead of the race.
“Bringing an international marathon here is a huge positive step forward, not only for the city of Yangon, but for Myanmar as a whole.”
David Shin, of race organisers Sporting Republic said: "We are extremely proud to bring an international marathon to Myanmar. This is a great opportunity to promote Myanmar and Yangon’s international image.” He said. “It is exciting to be part of a race that focuses on the runner’s experience, especially those that help raise funds for charity.”
Race Results:
42km Marathon Men’s Overall
| 1st | Joseph Gitau Kariuki | Kenya | 2 hours 19 minutes 13 seconds |
| 2nd | Onesmus Kuindi | Kenya | 2 hours 19 minutes 41 seconds |
| 3rd | Thuang Aye | Myanmar | 2 hours 27 minutes 12 seconds |
42km Marathon Women’s Overall
| 1st | Mi Mi Aye | Myanmar | 2 hours 46 minutes 7 seconds |
| 2nd | Pa Pa | Myanmar | 2 hours 48 minutes 11 seconds |
| 3rd | Nilar San | Myanmar | 2 hours 49 minutes 53 seconds |
Race Results will soon be available on the Yoma Yangon International Marathon website att www.yangonmarathon.com