Rwandan long-distance runner John Hakizimana marked a powerful return to the international stage by winning bronze at the Dubai Marathon on Sunday, January 1, ending a two-year absence from top-level long-distance racing in style. The 29-year-old clocked an impressive 2:06:04, finishing third in the men’s marathon to secure a podium place in one of the world’s fastest road races. Run under cool desert morning conditions, the race quickly developed into a high-paced contest, with Ethiopian runners setting a relentless early tempo. Nibret Melak and Yasin Haji surged to the front, stretching the field and testing the endurance of the chasing pack. Hakizimana ran with composure and tactical discipline, staying within striking distance and refusing to be dropped despite the Ethiopian dominance. By the halfway mark, a leading group of seven had emerged—six Ethiopians and Hakizimana standing firm among them. In the closing kilometres, Melak and Haji broke clear to claim gold and silver respectively. Hakizimana dug deep in the final stretch, holding off several younger challengers to cross the line in third place and seal a memorable comeback. “This bronze medal is a victory for Rwanda,” the local athletics governing body said in a post on X. “John’s comeback shows the power of resilience and belief. He has proven that setbacks are temporary, and the future of Rwandan athletics is bright.” The Dubai Marathon, first held in 1998, is renowned for its flat and fast course and is classified as a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, regularly attracting elite runners from across the globe.
