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Kiprotich sets new record in Kenyan, Ethiopian sweep of Lagos Marathon

Kenyan-born French long-distance runner, Abraham Kiprotich (L) receives his trophy from Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode (C) after winning the 2018 edition of the Lagos marathon in Lagos. Getty

As expected, Kenyan-born runners swept the podium at the third Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, claiming all three top medal positions in the men's category while Ethiopians made a clean sweep on the women's side.

Abraham Kiprotich, who now competes under the French flag, set a new championship record when he claimed the men's title with a time of 2:13:04.

That time eclipsed Abraham Kiptum's winning times of 2:16.19 and 2:15.23 run in the 2016 and 2017 editions of the competition respectively.

Kenyan Kiboss Ronny was not far behind his former compatriot with a time of 2:13:26.

Rounding up the sweep was Victor Benjamin who finished the 42 km race with a time of 2:13:29.

Herpa Guta led an Ethiopian wipeout of the women's race, cantering to victory with a time of 2:38.23 to finish ahead of Girma Getachew (2:38.34) and Ayelu Hordofu (2:38.39).

Kiprotich claimed the top prize of $50 000, while the second and third place finishers received $40 000 and $30 000 respectively.

Iliya Pam finished as the top Nigerian in the race, returning a time of 2:40.16 to edge 2016 winner Flilbus Sharubutu who came a distant second on 2:54.07.

Pam also won the category last year while William Kefas finished third on 2:58.07.