Kipchumba, Dibaba win in Xiamen Marathon

Kenya's Mariko Kiplagat Kipchumba clocked 2 hours 8 minutes 6 seconds to win the men's title of the 2014 Xiamen International Marathon on Thursday.

His compatriot Julius Muriuki Wahome came second in 2:09:28. Dereje Debele Tulu from Ethiopia was third with a time of 2:09:35.

Kipchumba broke away from the lead pack at about 30 kms before crossing the finish with comfort.

"It's my second time racing in Xiamen marathon. I ranked the 7th last time and I'll come again next year," Kipchumba said.

Ethiopia made a clean sweep of medals in the women's race with Mare Dibaba being crowned the champion in 2:21:36. Meseret Legesse grabbed the silver medal in 2:26:36 and Bedada Emebet Etea had bronze in 2:33:51.

Six categories were featured in this year's Xiamen Marathon, including full marathon, half marathon, 10KM, 5KM and wheelchair marathon. The annual event attracted more than 77,000 runners from 45 countries and regions.

IAAF President Lamine Diack, who is on a visit to Xiamen, fired the start gun for the race.