Yalemzerf Yehualaw Triumphs Again at Antrim Coast Half Marathon as Kenya’s Nzioka Matata Dominates Men’s Race

 


Yalemzerf Yehualaw Triumphs Again at Antrim Coast Half Marathon as Kenya’s Nzioka Matata Dominates Men’s Race

Ethiopian star Yalemzerf Yehualaw claimed her third victory in the Antrim Coast Half Marathon, while Kenya’s Alex Nzioka Matata powered to a brilliant win in challenging conditions in the men’s event. Despite wet and windy weather along the scenic 13-mile course in and around Larne, the elite athletes delivered standout performances in one of Northern Ireland’s most prestigious road races.

Yehualaw Extends Her Dominance

Yehualaw, who made headlines with her 2022 London Marathon win, was a class above the rest of the field, finishing in a commanding time of 65:34. The 25-year-old established a significant lead by the halfway point and crossed the line one minute and 16 seconds ahead of her nearest competitor, Kenya’s Loice Chemnung.

With expectations high for a showdown between Yehualaw and 2021 London Marathon champion Joyciline Jepkosgei, the Ethiopian proved untouchable. Jepkosgei settled for third, finishing one minute and 33 seconds behind the winner, while Chemnung secured second place. Yehualaw’s time was well outside her personal best of 63:51, but given the tough weather conditions, it was still an impressive display.

This victory added another chapter to Yehualaw’s storied history at the event. Back in 2021, she believed she had set a new world record with a time of 63:44, only for the course to be found 54 meters short, invalidating the mark. Her dominance in Larne remains undisputed as she continues to shine on the international stage.

Nzioka Matata Breaks 60 Minutes in Men’s Race

In the men’s race, Kenya’s Alex Nzioka Matata delivered a stunning performance, clocking 59:48 to claim victory. Braving the elements, the 27-year-old came within 11 seconds of his personal best, set earlier this year at the Padova Half Marathon in Italy. Nzioka Matata’s blistering run saw him break away from Ethiopia’s Birhanu Legese, a two-time Tokyo Marathon winner, shortly after the halfway point. He was never threatened thereafter, finishing 41 seconds clear of his compatriot Hillary Kipkoech (60:29), with Legese just a second further back in third.

The win continues Nzioka Matata’s excellent form in 2024 and reaffirms his status as one of the top half-marathoners on the circuit. Despite a field packed with talent, including Hillary Chepkwony, who boasts a 58:53 personal best from Valencia last October, the Kenyan was unmatched. Chepkwony struggled to stay with the leaders and eventually finished a disappointing sixth, over two minutes behind Nzioka Matata.

Irish Performances and Local Highlights

Hiko Tonosa was the standout performer among the Irish competitors, securing eighth place with a time of 62:47. While it was 24 seconds slower than his personal best from last year’s race, Tonosa showed resilience in the tough conditions. Meanwhile, Armagh’s Fionnuala Ross was the top Irishwoman, finishing 10th in 74:16, just 51 seconds off her best time for the distance.

The Antrim Coast Half Marathon continues to grow in prestige, attracting world-class athletes while also providing a platform for top Irish talent to test themselves against the best. Despite the inclement weather, the 2024 edition of the race produced high drama and outstanding performances from both local and international stars.