The Atapuerca International Cross Country in Spain featured a compelling duel between Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes. Ethiopia emerged victorious in both the men’s and women’s races.
For the men, Imane Merga of Ethiopia won in a sprint finish with four runners separated by only 4 seconds. Merga crossed the finish line in 28’05”, narrowly beating the Kenyan runners Vincent Chepkok (28’07”) and Emmanuel Bet (28’09”), as well as the Eritrean Teklemariam Medhin (28’10”).
In the women’s race, Ethiopian Hiwot Ayalew secured victory with a time of 25’01”, maintaining a lead over her closest rival, Kenyan Masai Linet, who finished in 25’19”. Notably, only three African athletes, including the Kenyan Prisca Cherono, made it to the top 10 in the women’s category.
The Atapuerca International Cross Country showcased intense competition and impressive performances from both Ethiopian and Kenyan runners.
