Uganda’s Musau, Ethiopia’s Mamo Win Lisbon Marathon

Uganda’s Martin Naibei Musau and Ethiopia’s Meskerem Mamo Hayile claimed top honours at the 13th edition of the EDP Lisbon Marathon on Saturday, both setting personal bests despite warm conditions that affected prospects of faster times.

Musau clocked 2:08:07 to win the men’s race, improving his previous personal best by 35 seconds in a competitive contest that saw four athletes break away from the main pack.

The Ugandan held off Kenya’s Gilbert Kipkurui Korir, who finished second in 2:08:33, while compatriot Stephen Chebon Kipkech settled for third in 2:08:35.

Both Kenyans also recorded personal bests in a strong showing by the East African athletes.

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Meskerem Mamo Hayile secured victory on her marathon debut, clocking 2:28:04 after a closely contested battle with three compatriots.

Mamo held off Tejitu Siyum Alamayehu, who finished second in 2:28:11, while Bashanke Imoshe Bilo completed the podium in 2:28:15.

Defending champion Abebech Afework finished fourth in 2:29:00, recording the same time she posted to win the 2025 edition.

The results highlighted the depth of East African distance running, with Ugandan and Ethiopian athletes taking the respective titles and Kenyan runners featuring prominently on the men’s podium.