Dubai, UAE – The 24th Dubai Marathon witnessed thrilling performances and unexpected victories as Ethiopian runners dominated the podium in both the men’s and women’s elite races. Debutant Bute Gemechu stunned the field by winning the men’s race in a world-leading time of 2:04:51, while Bedatu Hirpa delivered a dramatic finish to claim the women’s title in 2:18:27.
Men’s Race: A Debutant’s Triumph
The men’s race saw an all-Ethiopian podium, with Bute Gemechu, a 23-year-old newcomer, taking the top spot in his first-ever marathon. Gemechu broke away from the leading pack after the 35-kilometer mark and maintained his lead to cross the finish line in 2:04:51, the fastest marathon time in the world this year.
“Because it was my first marathon, I did not know what to expect. But at 36 kilometers, I realized I could win,” said Gemechu, who pocketed the $80,000 winner’s prize.
Fellow debutant Berehanu Tsegu finished second in 2:05:14, while Shifera Tamru secured third place with a time of 2:05:28. Notably, this marks the fifth consecutive year that a debutant has won the Dubai Marathon’s men’s race.
Women’s Race: A Dramatic Finish
The women’s race was equally thrilling, with Bedatu Hirpa overtaking pre-race favorite Dera Dida in the final stretch to claim victory. Hirpa, 25, clocked a world-leading time of 2:18:27, a massive personal best, while Dida, the 2023 Dubai Marathon champion, finished five seconds behind in 2:18:32.
Dida, the wife of Olympic marathon champion Tamirat Tola, had led the race for much of the distance but suffered stomach cramps in the closing kilometers, allowing Hirpa to surge ahead. “I was concentrating on my own race and did not realize Dida had problems. But I always thought I could win,” said Hirpa.
Tigist Girma completed the Ethiopian sweep in the women’s race, finishing third in 2:20:47.
10K Races: Strong Performances
In the parallel 10-kilometer races, Gemene Tunku of Ethiopia won the women’s event in a world-leading time of 31:03, narrowly edging out compatriot Chaltu Diriba, who was given the same time. Great Britain’s Eilish McColgan took third place in 31:14.
The men’s 10K race was won by Morocco’s Yassir Ech Chaachoui, who crossed the line in 28:20.
Also Read: Tokyo Marathon Foundation Rolls Out Exciting Events Ahead of Tokyo Marathon 2025
The 2025 Dubai Marathon attracted 17,000 participants across various race categories, solidifying its status as one of the world’s premier marathon events. With its fast course and lucrative prize purse, the race continues to draw elite athletes and running enthusiasts from around the globe.
The victories of Bute Gemechu and Bedatu Hirpa highlight the depth of talent in Ethiopian distance running. As both athletes celebrate their breakthrough wins, the running world eagerly anticipates their future performances on the global stage.
