Kenyan Sammy Kitwara and Moroccan Kaoutar Farkoussi were crowned, on January 28, champions of the 34th edition of the Marrakech International Marathon, which was held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
Sammy Kitwara completed the event in 2h07mn55s, followed by Moroccans Omar Ait Chitachen (2h08mn45s) and Mustapha Houdadi (2h09mn38s).
In the Women’s category, Moroccan Kaoutar Farkoussi came first, clocking 2h27mn58s, followed by her compatriots Fatiha Benchatki (2h28mn29s) and Kaltoum Bouasarya (2h29mn17s).
Concerning the Men’s half-marathon event, Moroccan Mohcine Outalha snatched first place, covering the distance in 1h1mn34s, followed by his compatriots Mohamed El Youssefi (1h01mn58s) and Bouazza Kassoui (1h02mn03s).
The Women’s half-marathon’s first prize went to Moroccan Rahma Tahiri who recorded 1h08mn34s, followed by her compatriots Kaoutar Kahhaz, (1h11mn06s), and Hanane Bouaggad (1h12mn07s).
The trophy presentation ceremony took place in the presence of the Wali of the Marrakech-Safi region, governor of the Marrakech prefecture, Farid Chourak, regional and local elected officials, in addition to other personalities.
Organized by the Association Le Grand Atlas (AGA), in collaboration with the Ministry of National Education, Preschool and Sports, the Royal Moroccan Athletics Federation (FRMA), the Wilaya of the region and the City of Marrakech, this 34th edition witnessed the participation of more than 13,000 runners, including over 50 TOP Runners, from around 70 countries.
This edition paid tribute to Moroccan athlete Fatima Ezzahra Gardadi, the first Arab woman to win a medal in the Women’s Marathon event, during the World Athletics Championships.