by Larry EderThe 2019 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon showed the exciting performances that come out of Dubai so early in the year. In near perfect weather, with a very fast course, and near perfect pacing, top young marathoners from Ethiopia and Kenya battled it out. Two men broke the course record, and also were under 2:04. And the performances continued…
Getaneh Molla, 2:03:34, 2019 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon, photo by Giancarlo Columbo
What makes Dubai so special? Having witnessed it for two years, this writer believes that the support of the local government, local sponsors, Standard Chartered Bank and adidas are part of the story. Part of the story is also the mercurial Peter Connerton, whose colorful approach to sport in the U.A.E. has taken the Dubai Mararthon to one of the top few dozen marathons to a consistent top five event each year, at the very least.
The lack of appearance money pits some of the unknown elites, who have spent their careers on the track, or roads and show up in Dubai to do battle and collect a good payday.
Special thanks to The Shoe Addicts’ Mike Deering, on his production skills with the podcast and patience with aforementioned author.
Here’s our preview on the 2019 race: https://youtu.be/
And here’s our podcast on the Men’s race:
