Ugandan long-distance runner Stephen Kissa claimed his first international victory in five years, stunning defending champion Daniel Ebenyo of Kenya at the ninth edition of the Tata Steel World 25K in Kolkata.
Kissa, making his debut over the 25-kilometer distance, clocked an impressive 1:12:33 to secure the win and reignite his career after several challenging years.
The men’s race began under cool conditions, with the leading pack of Kissa, Ebenyo, Benson Kipruto, and Haymanot Alew reaching the 10K mark in 28:42.
Defending champion Ebenyo, who set a world-best time for the 25K last year (1:11:13), appeared poised to repeat his dominance, staying neck-and-neck with Kissa for most of the race.
At the 20K mark, Kissa surged ahead with a split time of 57:50, maintaining a slim lead over Ebenyo. In a thrilling finish, Kissa held his composure and sprinted to the tape, outpacing Ebenyo by four seconds.
“I am very happy. This is my third time in India, and I felt strong throughout the race. I thought today could be my day, and it was,” Kissa said post-race.
For Kissa, this victory marked a turning point after struggling with non-finishes at the Tokyo Olympics (10,000m) and the Paris Marathon.
“Winning today means a lot. It’s been a tough few years, but I believed in myself, and this result shows I’m back,” he added.
Ebenyo, who finished second in 1:12:37, was gracious in defeat, saying, “Every day, a new champion is born. This year, it was Kissa. I was tired from the Chicago Marathon, but I gave it my all.”
Kenyan Anthony Kipchirchir rounded out the podium in 1:12:55, making his first-ever top-three finish in the event.
The women’s race saw Ethiopia’s Sutume Kebede defend her title in 1:19:17, adding another accolade to her stellar season.
Men’s Results
1. Stephen Kissa (Uganda) – 1:12:33
2. Daniel Ebenyo (Kenya) – 1:12:37
3. Anthony Kipchirchir (Kenya) – 1:12:55
