PARIS, April 14 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian marathoners dominated the 2019 Paris Marathon with double champions and a podium sweep in women's event here on Sunday.
A total of 49,155 runners started the 43rd edition at the iconic Champs-Elysees Avenue in sunny and cold conditions.
Six runners stayed in contention with less than 6km remaining in men's event. Then Abrha Milaw gradually moved ahead of the leading group, and completed the 42.195km race in two hours, seven minutes and five seconds to claim the title.
"It was a complicated race with a strong field. I was able to stick to my plan. I stayed with the favorites and then went for it with every ounce of energy I had left," said Milaw.
Asefa Mengistu of Ethiopia and two-time defending champion Paul Lonyangata of Kenya rounded off the podium.
Ethiopians' performance was more glittering in women's event. Gelete Burka triumphed in two hours, 22 minutes and 47 seconds, and was followed by her compatriots Azmera Gebru and Azmera Abreha.
"I'm delighted to add my name to the list of winners of the Paris Marathon. I suffered in the bitter cold this morning, but I managed to focus on my goal and on getting this victory I wanted so badly," Burka commented.
European championships silver medalist Clemence Calvin, who was given green light to participate following her initial temporary suspension, finished fourth in 2:23:41 to better France's previous national record by 41 seconds.
