Paris marathon revives Kenya, Ethiopia rivalry

Deressa Chimsa of Ethiopia

from MARIA MACHARIA in Nairobi, Kenya
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – BRAGGING rights will be at stake for traditional African long distance rivals, Ethiopia and Kenya at the Schneider Electric’s Paris Marathon next month.

The track event is scheduled for April 12.

The Schneider Electric’s Paris Marathon is sanctioned by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), a race that would see winners take further the battle to the 2015 IAAF World Relays in Nassau, Bahamas.

Big names are tipped to light up the event.

In the female category, Ethiopia will be without their winning ace Genzebe Dibaba, but the east African country fielded an equal and capable team led by hard running Mulu Seboka, who looked sharp at her training.

Another Ethiopian in the line-up, who is likely to give Kenyans some nightmares is Amane Gobena.

Kenya would look up to its lethal weapon on long distance race, Philes Ongori, who is believed will defend the country from losing its long distance bragging rights.

In the men’s category, Kenya will be represented by top athletes comprising Moses Mosop, Vincent Kipruto, Laban Korir, Gilbert Kirwa and Mike Kigen.

On the other hand, Ethiopia responded by fielding a strong team of long distance runners spearheaded by Bazu Worku, Deressa Chimsa, Seboka Tola and Raji Assefa.

The two rivalry nations will be the toast of the Paris Half Marathon.

Although other nations will be represented as well, it is the rivalry between Ethiopia and Kenya that will set up the event.

– CAJ News