Martin Li, Xiao Yuyuan

    martin.mouse@163.com

    ETHIOPIANS swept the top tree prizes in the men’s and women’s races at yesterday’s Shenzhen International Marathon, which drew 15,000 runners from 27 countries and regions, including Ethiopia and Kenya.

    Solomon Tsige Asfaw won the men’s race by finishing in two hours, 16 minutes and 21 seconds.

    Elfneshe Melaku Yado won the women’s race by finishing in two hours, 34 minutes and 23 seconds.

    “The weather and temperature today are very good for running... the city and its streets are beautiful, ” Asfaw told Shenzhen Daily after the competition.

    The competition was held on Shennan Boulevard, a signature road in Shenzhen.

    “The organization is very good and people in Shenzhen are very nice,” he said. Asfaw was awarded a trophy and US$20,000.

    Residents surrounded him after the award ceremony, trying to take photos with him.

    “It’s the best performance I’ve had this season,” he said. “I will come to Shenzhen next year.”

    In its second year, the marathon was sponsored by Chinese Athletic Association and the Shenzhen government.

    In addition to the full distance, there was also a half marathon and six-kilometer race.

    Last year’s marathon drew 10,000 runners.

    (Special report on P2)