The World Athletics Federation has awarded the Kigali International Peace Marathon (KIPM) Global Elite Label Status.

The latest label brings the annual Marathon event closer to becoming one of the Africa’s leading races after upgrading from Road Race Label.

It is the third most prestigious race label just behind gold and platinum labels.

Among the criteria that the World Athletics Federation considers when giving the label include high standard of organisation, competitiveness, a scenic course attracting elite athletes from around the world, compliance to the World Athletics rules and regulations and particularly the competition and technical rules, and a financial commitment to anti-doping.

ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Kenyans dominate 2023 Peace Marathon as Rwandans struggle

The Global Elite Label Status will take effect with the 2024 Peace Marathon which will take place on June 11.

Kenyan runners dominated the 2023 edition, bagging 10 medals out of a possible 12, as Rwandan representatives struggled to win any of the medals.

ALSO READ: What does getting the ‘World Marathon Label’ mean for Rwanda?

Marthe Yankurije, who plays for Rwamagana Athletics Club, was the only Rwandan who managed to take home a cash prize in the running race, after finishing seventh in the women’s half marathon, clocking 1:15:42 in the process.

While no Rwandan managed to win a medal at the 2023 edition, it was the Kenyans who dominated the podium both categories.

Kenyan Winfridah Moseti Moraa struck gold in the women's half marathon after crossing the finish line at BK Arena first clocking 1:12:40. She was followed by fellow Kenyans Lilian Jepkemboi Lelei and Susan Chambai Aramisi who bagged silver and bronze medals respectively.