Kisii-based runners George Onyancha and Damaris Areba each earned $4,500 (approximately Ksh1.1 million) after winning the Miami Marathon titles on Sunday, January 29, 2023.
Onyancha was unmatchable in the streets of Miami, clocking an impressive time of 2:18.25 to bag the men’s title.
The 29-year-old road race runner finished ahead of Ethiopian athlete Siraj Amda Gena who clocked 2:24.16.
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Speaking after the dominant display, Onyancha stated that he had to make a move early to prevent his main rival from outpacing him.
“I was leading and had another runner behind me until the 25K mark. Since I didn't know what his strategy was, I thought: 'Let me take off,” he was quoted by PR Newswire.
On the other hand, Areba overcame the extreme weather conditions to reach the tape at 2:33.49 and escaped with the women’s title.
In doing so, she missed the course record of 2:29.00 set by fellow countrywoman Martha Akeno during the 2022 edition.
Areba was amazed by the uniqueness of the marathon course, particularly the eye-catching surroundings.
"The lights on the big ships, they're so beautiful," she stated during the post-race media briefing.
Onyancha disclosed that he would use part of the prize money to pay school fees for his two younger siblings while Areba promised to donate some cash to youth developmental running programs in Kenya.
Moreover, the 27-year-old divulged that she would purchase a parcel of land and construct a permanent house. Areba currently resides in a rental apartment alongside her husband.
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