Xiamen, China – Ethiopian long-distance runners continued their reign on January 11, capturing gold in both the men’s and women’s divisions of the prestigious 2026 Xiamen Marathon. This elite road race, the inaugural World Athletics Platinum Label event of the year, featured 35,000 athletes pounding the pavement in the picturesque port city.

Dawit Wolde led the men’s charge, powering through to victory in 2:09:18, with his Ethiopian teammates locking down the entire podium. The trio’s performance was a masterclass in pacing and resilience, leaving competitors in their wake.

Over in the women’s elite field, Ruti Aga repeated as champion, her 2:22:45 finish a testament to her enduring class. Fellow Ethiopians rounded out the top three, creating a historic sweep that electrified spectators lining the course.

Wolde, beaming after his win, highlighted enhancements to the race route. ‘It’s better than last year, and I really enjoy Xiamen,’ he shared, crediting the conditions for his success. Chinese standout Yang Shaohui, who topped his nation’s men with 2:11:14, called the marathon a premier global showdown. ‘Running with the world’s best is invaluable,’ he remarked.

The marathon’s platinum status underscores its elite field and meticulous organization, weaving through Xiamen’s beaches, bridges, and boulevards. With such fierce international competition, the event not only crowns champions but also boosts the city’s profile as a running hub. As 2026 unfolds, expect Ethiopians to remain frontrunners, but rising talents like Yang signal shifting tides in the sport.