Gobena, Jepchirchir claim Sydney Marathon titles

SYDNEY - Ethiopian distance runner Addisu Gobena delivered a commanding performance to capture the men's title at the Sydney Marathon on Sunday, establishing a new course record in the process as winter conditions drew to a close across Australia.

Gobena's record-breaking effort came on the penultimate day of the Australian winter season, demonstrating the competitive depth on display at the prestigious race held in the country's largest city.

In the women's competition, Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir dominated proceedings to secure first place. Jepchirchir, who holds both world championship and former Olympic titles to her name, underscored her status as one of the sport's elite marathoners with a decisive performance.

The dual victories highlighted the continued strength of East African runners in the marathon discipline, with competitors from Ethiopia and Kenya once again proving their credentials on the international stage. The Sydney Marathon attracts elite distance runners from across the globe seeking to test themselves on the challenging course.