Ramu wins gold for run-of-the-mile story

Ramu led the way soon after the flag-off at 6.00 a.m. from the stadium premises. The three Ethiopians — Tesfaye Bayu Orgawa, Tegayae Desalgne and Abebe Seume — remained close. But past the 8-km mark, the trio took turns at following the Indian with the other two racing about a metre behind.

The rest of the pack remained beyond vision as the race for the title was restricted to the four out of the 154 in contention and at the 18-km marker, Ramu opened up a big lead over his competitors.

‘‘I had a slight pain in my stomach while coming downhill at the bridge. I thought would be in trouble but I had some water and that made me feel better. I then knew that no one would catch me and I kept going,’’ Ramu said later.

As the 28-year-old breasted the tape in 2:23.46 secs., the huge crowd roared in delight and gave him a standing ovation. Marshet Timm clocked 2:45.34 secs to claim the women’s marathon with Adechbe Yene second in 2:47.04 and Kone Alemu third in 3:03.47 secs.

Leelamma Alphonso of Indian Railways was the fastest Indian woman and came fourth behind the Ethiopians in 3:16.47 secs.

The Ethiopians, speaking through some student interpreters, felt that it was a bit hot and the route had a couple of slopes and climbs which made it a bit tough for them after a long journey.

Delhi’s Bhagavathi won the women’s half marathon in a time of 1:26.24 secs.