Great success for the Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon, which saw the triumph of Kenya in both the men’s and women’s races. Councilor Onorato: “In just two years this race has already become one of the most important in the world”
In the shadow of the “great beauty” of the eternal city, the second edition of the Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon took place, the official half marathon of the capital organized by RCS Sports & Events with RomaOstia, which exceeded the ceiling of 22 thousand registered participants, of which over 70 percent were foreigners. A very fast and high-level race which saw a new course record for the men, with the podium all under an hour.
the race
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Kenyan domination, both male and female. For the men, the Kenyan trio broke away from the group starting from the tenth kilometre, with the sprint finish rewarding Simon Maywa with a time of 59’44”, two seconds ahead of Vincent Kimaiyo (59’45”). At the foot of the podium was Kalipus Lomwai (59’56”). Even for the women, the tenth kilometer was the watershed of the race, which saw Regina Cheptoo triumph in 1h8’26”, followed by Milicent Jelimo (1h08’37”) and Gladys Cherop (1h09’22”). The best Italians were Lorenzo Martelli, fourteenth, who stopped the time at 1h10’43”, and Sofiia Yaremchuk, fifth, who finished the race in 1h11’01”. The race was broadcast live by Sky Sport, the official broadcaster of the event.
“OVER 22 THOUSAND MEMBERS”
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A success from all points of view, confirmed by Alessandro Onorato, councilor for major events, sport, tourism and fashion of Rome Capital: “The half marathon, with over 22 thousand participants, of which 72% from abroad, was a success. We are happy that, in just two years, this race has already become one of the most important in the world: it was a bet that we won, confident in the enormous potential of the combination between Rome and its only and official half marathon. The major events generate important employment, economic, tourist and social impacts, with foreign runners who, with their families, have used the city’s services and created a healthy festive atmosphere. I also thank the Gemelli Polyclinic which, between Friday and Saturday, carried out thousands of free medical check-ups: it is essential to raise awareness among citizens, adults and young people, about prevention, underlining the link between sport and health”.
SATISFACTION
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Paolo Bellino, CEO and general manager of Rcs Sports & Events, was also satisfied: “We are super happy, it was a great day of sport in beautiful Rome, full of runners everywhere. A great success and a big step forward compared to the first edition. Truly an excellent omen for next year.” “The Wizz Air Rome Hal Marathon, in its second edition, is now on par with the major European and global half marathon events – comments Laura Duchi, race director of the race -. We are very satisfied, having reached the goal of 50 percent female participants and many young people who came to run in the most beautiful city in the world”. Sofiia Yaremchuk is also happy: “It’s always a great emotion to run at home, in Rome. Beautiful course, beautiful day. I’m very satisfied, this year I ran two minutes faster than last year, even if I’m not in great shape at the moment. This race is a good starting point.” Mauro Peneda, managing director of Wizz Air Malta, was also enthusiastic: “The Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon embodies the energy and passion that unites runners and travellers. Rome plays an important role in Wizz Air’s European network and this event reflects the same ambition that drives our airline every day. It was wonderful to see thousands of runners crossing some of the city’s most iconic scenery, with Rome splendidly covered in pink”.
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