News Release – Monday 10^th October 2005

Derartu shatters Ethiopian female 10 mile best

Derartu Tulu’s brilliant performance in yesterday’s BUPA Great South Run saw her shatter the Ethiopian female 10 mile best, finishing in first place in the women’s competition and setting a new national record of 51 minutes and 27 seconds.  

Derartu broke the previous national record of 52:55, set three years ago in Washington DC by Teyiba Erkis, while compatriot Elfnesh Alemu also smashed Teyiba’s former mark with a time of 52:18 and finishing in second place.

“I'm a little disappointed I wasn't a little faster,” said Derartu, “I am pleased to have won another big race in this country.''

Sadly Gezahegne Abera, who was competing in the Men’s race in Portsmouth, finished in 18th place with a time of 50:15. It was, however, his first competitive outing in two years following an Achilles injury at the World Championships in Paris.

ENDS