Kenya’s Victor Kiptoo Kimutai and Benson Nzioki Mutiso had a spectacular finish last Sunday at the Gutenberg Half Marathon in Germany, tying for first in the men’s half-marathon with a time of 61:01. The two soared through the finish line side by side, making officials’ task of identifying the winner impossible.
A tie, also known as a “dead race,” is rare. In the past, innovative solutions like a coin flip or a runoff (another race between the two runners who tied) have been used to settle debates over who won. But after reviewing footage, officials in Sunday’s race decided to let the two share first place.
After leading for the first 12 km on the challenging uphill course, Mutiso broke away from the pack, with Kimutai following. The race was held under sunny conditions with a slight breeze, making it ideal for a fast pace. In the last kilometre, Kimutai caught up to Mutiso, resulting in an epic battle to the finish line. The race was Mutiso’s half-marathon debut, and the result was a personal best for Kimutai.
Collins Kipkemboi followed closely behind the duo, placing third at 61:38. Kenya’s success was also seen in the women’s half, where Josephine Naukot took first at 69:26 in her half-marathon debut, and Brenda Jepchirchir arrived in second at 69:45.
