Kenyan, Ethiopian Runners Claim Victory in 2024 Taipei Marathon
The 2024 Taipei Marathon concluded on Sunday with impressive victories by Brimin Kipkorir of Kenya in the men’s race and Amid Fozya Jemal of Ethiopia in the women’s category. The prestigious event, which attracted approximately 28,000 participants, saw strong performances despite the challenging conditions.
Brimin Kipkorir Dominates Men’s Race
Kenya’s Brimin Kipkorir triumphed in the men’s 42.2-kilometer race with a finish time of 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 41 seconds. While Kipkorir’s time was impressive, it fell just shy of the event’s all-time record of 2:09:18, set by his compatriot Paul Lonyongata in 2020. Kipkorir’s victory earned him a prize of $67,500, adding to his growing reputation in international marathons.
Amid Fozya Jemal Wins Women’s Race
On the women’s side, Ethiopia’s Amid Fozya Jemal secured the first-place finish with a time of 2:32:47. Although Jemal’s time was approximately seven minutes behind the women’s marathon record of 2:25:55, it was enough to secure the top spot. This victory adds to Jemal’s impressive portfolio, which includes a win at the New Taipei Wan Jin Shi Marathon earlier this year.
Both Kipkorir and Jemal will receive the first-place prize of $67,500, as confirmed by the race organizers.
Strong Performances from Taiwanese Runners
In the men’s category, Taiwan’s Chou Ting-yin (周庭印) stood out with a personal best of 2:21:17, making him the fastest domestic runner. Chou, who had a disappointing experience at the Chicago Marathon in October, surpassed expectations in Taipei, stating in a post-race interview that he had struggled with training after his Chicago performance but managed to achieve a personal record on Sunday.
For the women’s category, Taiwan’s Hsieh Chien-ho (謝千鶴) was the fastest local competitor, finishing with a time of 2:51:12.
The Course: A Scenic and Challenging Route
The Taipei Marathon, established in 1986, is one of the premier events in Taiwan’s marathon calendar. After a multi-year hiatus due to the construction of the Taipei Metro, it has been held annually since 2001. The marathon begins at Taipei City Hall and takes runners through some of the city’s most iconic areas, including Renai Road, the Presidential Office, Ximen, and Zhongshan North Road, before crossing the Keelung River and reaching the Nangang Exhibition Center. The race concludes at Taipei Municipal Stadium, providing a spectacular finish for participants and spectators alike.
Marathon’s Global Recognition
The Taipei Marathon is not just a local highlight; it is also one of the two World Athletics Gold Label Road Races in Taiwan, alongside the New Taipei Wan Jin Shi Marathon. This prestigious status draws international athletes from around the world and enhances the visibility of Taiwan on the global marathon circuit.
Key Results and Statistics
| Category | Winner | Finish Time | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s Marathon | Brimin Kipkorir (Kenya) | 2:11:41 | US$67,500 |
| Women’s Marathon | Amid Fozya Jemal (Ethiopia) | 2:32:47 | US$67,500 |
| Fastest Taiwanese (Men) | Chou Ting-yin (Taiwan) | 2:21:17 | N/A |
| Fastest Taiwanese (Women) | Hsieh Chien-ho (Taiwan) | 2:51:12 | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Taipei Marathon’s course like?
The marathon begins at Taipei City Hall and travels through iconic locations such as Renai Road, the Presidential Office, and Zhongshan North Road. The course then crosses the Keelung River before heading to the Nangang Exhibition Center, ultimately finishing at Taipei Municipal Stadium.
2. Who were the top male and female runners in the 2024 Taipei Marathon?
Brimin Kipkorir of Kenya won the men’s race, while Ethiopia’s Amid Fozya Jemal claimed victory in the women’s category.
3. What is the prize for winning the Taipei Marathon?
The first-place winners in both the men’s and women’s categories received a cash prize of $67,500.
4. What is the history of the Taipei Marathon?
The Taipei Marathon was established in 1986 and has been held annually since 2001 after a hiatus due to the construction of the Taipei Metro. It is one of Taiwan’s premier sporting events.
5. Is the Taipei Marathon recognized globally?
Yes, the Taipei Marathon is one of Taiwan’s two World Athletics Gold Label Road Races, alongside the New Taipei Wan Jin Shi Marathon, attracting athletes from around the world.
Conclusion: A Race of International Prestige
The 2024 Taipei Marathon once again showcased incredible athletic talent and solidified its place on the world stage. With Kenyan and Ethiopian runners taking the top spots, the event continues to draw international attention. Taiwanese runners also showed their prowess, with personal bests being set by local competitors. The marathon’s recognition as a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race further highlights its significance on the global marathon calendar.
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