Alemu pips Mamo in Belfast as Selsouli wins women's race

Abay Alemu edged out Tadesse Mamo by one second to win a thrilling Belfast Marathon on Sunday. The Ethiopian pair moved clear in the closing stages before a sprint finish which saw Alemu break the tape in 2:16:23. "I'm very happy - the people were very nice," said Alemu.

"The weather was very cold and the pace was not good but the feeling is nice. " Abera Ketema made it an Ethiopian 1-2-3 by coming in third in a time of 2:17:38. Josh Griffiths (2:18:01) was fourth with Jonathan Cornish (2:19:28) fifth.

Lalla Aziza wins the Women's race at the Belfast City Marathon It was third time lucky for Lala Aziza Selsouli in the women's race as the Moroccan eased to victory after two runner-up finishes. Selsouli clocked 2:38:00 and was followed home by City of Derry athlete Judith Storm, who ran a personal best of 2:39:09. "This is my third time - I always wish to win and finally I did it," said Selsouli.

"I like this race, I like to run in Belfast and I'm very happy to win. " Melissa Gibson of Ealing completed the podium by finishing third in 2:42:44. Dearbhla Cox (2:44:31) came in fourth with Pamela Kirk (2:44:48) in fifth place.