Regassa wins Zayed half-marathon

Kenya's kitwara finishes second as Keitany dominates the women's section

Abu Dhabi: The Zayed International Half Marathon was a huge success Thursday, with more than 35,000 runners of different ages and nationalities, along with professionals and amateurs taking part in the different races.

Tilahum Regassa from Ethiopia won the first prize of $300,000 in the men's category, at a time of 59:19 minutes (a new record for the competition) to cross the finish line.

Kenyan Sammy Kitwara finished second (59:34) to win $100,000 and Ethiopian Lelisa Desild finished third (59:59).

"The Kenyan runners dominated the start of the race and when I overtook him it was easy going to the end," Regassa said.

"The track was perfect and the running was easy. I am happy to win the race."

In the ladies' category, Mary Keitany of Kenya finished first in 1:07:14 hours to pocket $300,000 followed by compatriot Philes Moraa Ongori in second place (1:09:16) and Ethiopian Dire Tune in third place (1:09:19).