Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola Wins Gold in Marathon, Ending Kenya’s Dominance at Paris Olympics

Ethiopian runner Tamirat Tola made headlines by winning the men’s marathon at the Paris Olympics, breaking Kenya‘s long-standing dominance in the event.

Tola crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 26 seconds, setting a new Olympic record. Belgium’s Bashir Abdi finished just 21 seconds behind him, while Kenya’s Benson Kipruto secured the bronze medal, finishing 34 seconds after Tola.

The 32-year-old Tola was initially a substitute for the Ethiopian team but got the chance to compete after an injury sidelined his teammate. Tola expressed his joy and satisfaction, stating, “I was fully prepared and knew I could fulfill my dream. I am very proud, very happy.” This victory marks Tola’s second Olympic medal, having previously earned one for the 10,000 meters at the Rio Games in 2016.

Bashir Abdi also earned his second Olympic medal, surpassing his bronze from the Tokyo Games three years ago. Britain’s Emile Cairess finished fourth in the marathon, showcasing his determination even after 42 kilometers of racing.

On the other hand, two-time defending champion Eliud Kipchoge had a tough day, struggling through the race and ultimately not finishing. At the 30-kilometer mark, he lagged significantly behind Tola and couldn’t continue the race, marking a disappointing end for the celebrated runner.

The last time a non-Kenyan won the Olympic marathon was in 2012, when Uganda’s Stephen Kiprotich took the gold. Kipchoge was aiming to be the first man to win the marathon three times, a feat last accomplished by Ethiopian Abebe Bikila and East German Waldemar Cierpinski in the 1960s and 1970s.

Unlike the traditional closing day marathon, this year the men’s race was held earlier in the Olympics, with the women’s marathon scheduled for Sunday. The challenging route started from Hôtel de Ville, passing through picturesque parks and historical landmarks before culminating at Invalides, where spectators cheered for all the runners crossing the finish line.