Spotlight on Dibaba, Jepkosgei in Delhi

Ethiopia’s distance running great Tirunesh Dibaba declared herself fit for Sunday’s Airtel Delhi Half Marathon despite having a recovery period of just five weeks from the gruelling Berlin Marathon.

Three-time Olympic gold winner in the 5,000m and 10,000m, Dibaba ran an outstanding time of 2:18:55 at the Berlin Marathon on September 16 but she said she has recovered quickly despite the short amount of time between the two races.

“One of my plans was to run a 21K (half marathon) after Berlin and my manager told me about Delhi, and I thought it was a good idea,” said Dibaba, who has turned into one of the world’s top road runners after a medal-laden track and cross country career.

“I’ve recovered more-or-less, although I wanted to run faster in Berlin. I’ve come to Delhi with the first target of winning,” added Dibaba.

Current half marathon world record holder Joyciline Jepkosgei said weather conditions would be key in the race on Sunday.