16 December 2024 | Athletics

Uganda’s long-distance runner Stephen Kissa claimed victory in the Tata Steel Kolkata World 25K on Sunday, logging his first win in an international competition in five years.

Kissa clocked 1:12:33 to dethrone Kenya's Daniel Ebenyo who came second.

The leading group of last year's winner Daniel Ebenyo, Benson Kipruto, Kissa and Haymanot Alew reached 10km in 28:42 with Ebenyo looking strong, remaining at the helm or alongside Kissa for much of the race.

They reached 15km in 42:56, with Ebenyo and Kissa still leading the pack as the pace picked up along the tram tracks of South Kolkata. Kipruto dropped off as Kissa took the lead at the 20km mark, clocking 57:50, with Ebenyo close behind.

Ebenyo tried to move away from Kissa but the Ugandan athlete held off the challenge to sprint to the tape and win in 1:12:33.

“I realised that I ran well today,” said Kissa. “I thought this could be my day. At the last kilometre, I was comfortable, and I knew I could do it.”

Ebenyo finished runner-up four seconds later, while Anthony Kipchirchir came through for third place in 1:12:55.

“Every day, a champion is born in sports. Last year, it was me. This year, it was Kissa. That is the fun of sports. I am very happy. He has flown the flag of Uganda and congratulations,” Ebenyo said.

Leading Results

Men

1. Stephen Kissa (UGA) 1:12:33
2. Daniel Ebenyo (KEN) 1:12:37
3. Anthony Kipchirchir (KEN) 1:12:55
4. Benson Kipruto (KEN) 1:13:25
5. Asbel Rutto (KEN) 1:13:36

Recent Comments