Colombo Marathon 2026 attracts over 5,000 runners

The Colombo Marathon 2026 concluded on September 13 at Galle Face Green, featuring over 5,000 participants, including 130 foreign runners from 25 countries. The event was organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in conjunction with the Department of Sports Development.

In the men’s 42km full marathon, Uganda’s Julius Ugandan Ochieng took first place with a time of 2:18:54, followed by Geoffrey Birgen of Kenya and Negasi Tuji Korme of Ethiopia. The women’s 42km full marathon was dominated by Ethiopian athletes, with Aynalem Kasahun Teferi winning in 2:54:09, followed by Gete Guta Galato and Genzeb Shumi Regasa.

In the 21km half marathon, Kenya’s Edwin Yebei Kiptoo secured first place in the men’s category, while Sri Lanka’s Methmi Rosata won the women’s category. Sri Lankan runners swept the podium for both the men’s and women’s 10km races. Total prize money awarded at the event exceeded Rs. 12.83 million.