Ethiopian runner Tilahun Nigussie stormed to victory at the Belfast Marathon, setting a new course record of 2:13:37, surpassing the previous record by four seconds. The 26-year-old dominated the race from the outset, finishing well ahead of his competitors despite briefly taking a wrong turn in the final kilometre.
Nigussie, who holds a personal best of 2:07:50, reached the halfway point in 1:08:40 before accelerating in the final miles in pursuit of a course record bonus. Although a missed turn briefly threatened his chances, he quickly rejoined the course and powered to the finish line with a strong sprint.
In the women’s category, Kenya’s Millicent Kibet took the top spot with a time of 2:38:30, fending off a late challenge from Morocco’s Lalla Aziza, who finished 21 seconds behind. Previous Belfast winner Gladys Ganiel, aged 48, secured the Northern Ireland title and third place overall with a time of 2:45:46.
Among the local runners, Drogheda’s Aaron Hanlon claimed second place in the men’s race, finishing in 2:27:06. Stephen Connolly of Annadale Striders marked his marathon debut by placing third in 2:29:30, earning him the Northern Ireland title.
Jayne Bleakley from Aghadowey made history by becoming the first woman to complete the wheelchair race in Belfast. Competing in her first marathon at age 44, Bleakley clocked a time of 2:28:27. Diagnosed with encephalitis as a child, her achievement drew widespread admiration.
This year’s event attracted record participation, with 6,500 full marathon runners, 2,750 relay teams, and 1,200 walkers taking part in the city’s premier running event.
