Kenya's Kiptanui wins 38th Berlin half-marathon

BERLIN, April 8 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's Erick Kiptanui ran out a new course record of 58:42 minutes to win the 38th edition of Berlin's half marathon on Sunday.

Kiptanui crossed the finish line with just 19 second short of the World record. He still equalled the best time in the world this year. Kenya's Emmanuel Kiprono finished second with 60:29 followed by Richard Mengich, who clocked 60:39.

On sunny but windy weather conditions Kiptanui was able, together with pacemaker Vincent Kipchumba, to run out a clear lead in the first ten kilometres.

After a fast paced start into the half-marathon Kiptanui's strength declined. Hence, he was unable to set a new World record despite a promising split time.

Kenya dominated the men's competition after securing the first seven places. Germany's Homiyu Tesfaye was the best non-Kenyan as he finished on the 8th place after clocking 62:13.

Ethiopia's Melat Kjeta won the women's competition after reaching the finishing line with 69:04. Switzerland's Martina Straehl came in on the 2nd place and set a new Swiss record with 69:29, followed by Finland's Anne Mari Hyrylaeinen, who grab the 3rd position with 71:04.

Due to the summerish conditions 250,000 spectators lined to course to see the 36,000 athletes at the 38th edition of Berlin's half-marathon. Enditem