Over 900 runners compete in scenic Plitvice Marathon, Kenyans dominate races

Over 900 participants from a record 50 countries gathered for the 41st Plitvice Marathon, held amidst the scenic beauty of Croatia's oldest national park. The event, known for its long tradition, took place in the stunning landscape of the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Kenyan runners once again proved dominant in the marathon. Benard Kitur of Kenya secured first place in the men's competition, completing the 42-kilometer course in 2 hours, 32 minutes, and 29 seconds. His compatriot Edward Kimetto followed in second place with a time of 2:42.20. Milan Čuljat of Croatia finished third, clocking in at 3:09.42.

In the women's marathon, Irine Jeruto from Kenya emerged victorious, finishing in 3 hours, 3 minutes, and 33 seconds. Rose Jepchumba, also from Kenya, took second place with a time of 3:06.50. Croatian runner Ines Jozić secured the third position with a result of 3:09.25.

The half-marathon also saw strong performances from Kenyan athletes. Bernard Kiprotich Too won the men's half-marathon in 1:13.56, while Ivan Dračar came in second at 1:14.15. Dragan Narančić of Croatia finished third with a time of 1:24.08, adding to his earlier 5 km race victory.

Perez Jerubet of Kenya led the women's half-marathon in 1:25.03, followed by Gladys Jepkorir Kiprotich of Kenya in second place at 1:25.09. Kimberly Pašalić of Croatia was third with a time of 1:34:48. The Plitvice Marathon is part of a series of races organized in national parks, with the next event, the Risnjak Trail, scheduled for July 25-26.