Ethiopian Kebebe first woman across the line in ASICS Gold Coast Marathon

Ethiopia’s Almaz Kebebe confirmed her status as one of world marathon running’s brightest young prospects, powering to victory in the women’s ASICS Gold Coast Marathon in an impressive 2:24:53.

The 20-year-old displayed remarkable composure and strength to claim the biggest victory of her career and further cement her reputation as one of the sport’s rising stars.

“This is a big victory for me, this is unbelievable,” Kebebe said.

“The pace was really good, and then the other runners came for me before I chased them. I’m really happy, it’s a surprise for me.

“The Gold Coast is amazing. It is a beautiful place. Thank you to all the fans for supporting us.”

The winning time was 31 seconds outside the women’s race record of 2:24:22 set by Japan’s Yuki Nakamura in 2024.

Kenya’s Antonina Kwambai, another of the elite favourites heading into today’s race, finished second in 2:25:41.

“I’m feeling very excited, it was a good time. It was my first time on the Gold Coast. It was a very nice course, and running with pacers was good.

“I like the Gold Coast, it’s amazing. Great course, flat course, great beaches. It was wonderful.”

Japan’s Kaede Kawamura was the third female runner across the line in 2:28:00.

“I was aiming for a better time, and I slowed down at the end of the race, but overall very happy to have come third today,” Kawamura said.

Two-time Sydney Half Marathon winner Abigail Nordberg was the first Australian woman home, placing fourth in a personal best time of 2:30:22. Four Australians finished inside the top ten of this year’s women’s race that included elite runners from Africa, Asia and Europe.