TURKEY: 5th International Marathon in Mersin

The 5th International Marathon under the slogan "Everyone Runs to Mersin" was held in Mersin yesterday, organized by the capital's municipality. The race was attended by 1,696 runners from 25 countries and hundreds of citizens. The marathon was classified as "Elite Label" by the World Athletics Association. Kenyan Benard Kipkorir, winner of the men's 42km marathon, broke the course record in Mersin and had the second best time in Turkey. Women's 42km marathon winner Ruth Jebet not only broke the course record in Mersin, but also surpassed the Olympic threshold and qualified for the quota for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.  In the women's 10km race, Anastasia Nikolaeva took third place with a time of 41 minutes and 7 seconds, while in the men's 10km race, Stanislav Ageljarov was second with a time of 30 minutes and 22 seconds.

Mersin Municipality Mayor Vahap Secher also participated in the marathon, which started on Adnan Menderes Boulevard in Yenisehir neighborhood. Secher ran together with thousands of citizens with the badge number "0033" and started the 42K and 10K race.

 The marathon was followed by an award ceremony. At the ceremony, President Wahap Secher and members of the protocol presented awards and medals to the winners. "We will organize the International Mersin Marathon next year as well," said Wahap Secher.