Leichtathletik-EM: Petros overcomes entry problems to storm to marathon gold

Amanal Petros has been crowned the new European Marathon Champion in Birmingham, securing his first major international title after a challenging journey.

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It took a very, very long time, it was terrible. We were traveling back and forth for two days.

Petros, who arrived in Birmingham only on Saturday, a day before the race, battled through significant entry problems. "It took a very, very long time, it was terrible. We were traveling back and forth for two days," Petros said, expressing gratitude to the German Athletics Association (DLV) for their assistance in resolving the issues. "I have to thank the DLV, the DLV cleared it up. Thanks for doing so much work," he added.

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I have to thank the DLV, the DLV cleared it up. Thanks for doing so much work.

The 31-year-old Eritrean-born runner, who fled to Germany at a young age, delivered a commanding performance. He broke away from the lead group after approximately 25 kilometers on an uphill section, establishing an unassailable lead. He crossed the finish line with a championship record of 2:09:11, a stark contrast to his near-miss at last year's World Championships in Tokyo.

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The last two kilometers I tried to enjoy the atmosphere.

Despite the demanding, hilly course, Petros managed his effort well, even taking time to enjoy the atmosphere in the final two kilometers. "This course was terrible. It hurts everywhere. I think I need to go to the physio right away. My joints really hurt," he admitted after the race, clearly showing the physical toll of the event. His victory marks the fifth German gold medal at the European Athletics Championships, following Jule Weber's earlier success in the javelin throw.

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This course was terrible. It hurts everywhere. I think I need to go to the physio right away. My joints really hurt.