Minsk Half Marathon 2016. Mazuronak finished first with new national record

Volha Mazuronak was the first to cross the finish line at the Minsk Half Marathon 2016. The event was marked by the new national record.

In Women’s heat, Volha covered 21,1km in 1:11.44 and came first. Nina Savina finished second in 1:11.50. The bronze medal went to Kenyan stayer Stella Jepngetich Barsosio – 1:12.48.

Kenyan runners Hillary Kiptum Maiyo Kimaiyo and Abel Kibet Rop won the Men’s heat. The latter finished in 1:03.38. Ukrainian Vitaly Shafar was the third winner of the race – 1:04.12.

“Unusual race course, rather complicated. I revved up, so I had to run alone. It’s hard to keep pace, with all the rivals left behind. I thank my promoter, who agreed to take part in the Marathon. It’s priceless experience, and I’m glad to have won the heat”, Hillary told after the run.

10-km heat was conquered by Latvian Dmitriy Seregin (32.34). Belarusian Artsyom Logish and Dmitri Ivanenka became silver and bronze medalists (33.00 and 33.14 respectively).

Anastasia Puzakova won the Women’s event – 37.24.

The most popular heat of 5km was covered by 14 thousand runners. Minsk Security Department employee Dmitri Hramatouski made it in 16.29, while the Women’s 5km were won by Ilona Ivanova from Mogilev. The prize pool of the Marathon equaled to $25.000. The whole sports celebration welcomed about 20.000 amateurs.

The First Vice President Maksim Ryzhenkov bettered his previous record by 5 minutes. Ryzhenkov said it became possible due to the trainings with Dream Team and preparations in Rio. He also admitted that the Minsk anniversary was organized perfectly.

- Looking back to the last Marathon, I can assure you that this Half Marathon was organized even better. Nobody was dispersing after the 5-km heat, they were patiently waiting and encouraging another athletes. The atmosphere of the celebration was extremely warm and positive. The Half Marathon passed smoothly, thanks to exemplary arrangement. I am pleased that I have enhanced my previous result. I see the sports movement to find its way in people’s hearts. We are on the right track, - he added.

The Minister of Sport and Tourism Aliaksandr Shamko took part in the Marathon, accompanied by his daughter. He also underlined positive tendencies in sports development with regard to the growing number of the runners. He thanked mass media representatives, who had made immense contribution to the promotion and marketing campaign of the Marathon.

Photo and material by BelTA 

Translated by NOC Belarus