Kenyans Wilson Kipsang and Mary Keitany sailed to a decisive victory win at the London Marathon today. By winning the race both Kipsang and Keitany virtually assured themselves of selection for the Olympic games on the national team.
Kipsang took control of the race at about six miles from the finishline, and ran alone to the finish to win in 2 hours, 4 minutes, 44 seconds.
"I knew when I went away they have to work very, very hard to beat me as I was feeling very good in myself," he said. "I am sorry I didn't (break) the record but winning is the most important thing for me. I feel a little tired now, but I am happy and tired."
Meanwhile Keitany defended last year's win with a 2:18:37 finish...also scoring an African record. After the race she stood on an all women's Kenyan podium
"Everyone was just looking for the Olympic time in order to be selected," she saidafter the race. "It's great for me to win the race for the second time. I hope they will select me now for the Olympics.
A total of about 37,000 people ran the London Marathon, but the race was marred by the tragic death of a runner.
"A 30-year-old woman collapsed at Birdcage Walk, and although immediate medical attention was provided to the casualty, the fatality was confirmed this afternoon," organizers said in a statement. They did not identify the runner.
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