LOCAL runners are expected to dominate the 2012 MTN International Marathon in Kampala on Sunday with several lined up to compete in the 42km and 21km races.Ugnadan runners will be buoyed by Stephen Kiprotich’s surprise marathon win at the London Olympics, who however will not run in this year’s event.Rwanda’s line-up is comprised of Robert Kajuga and Claudette Mukasakindi (half marathon) as well as Posien Ntawuyirushintege, Fredrick Bahakurama and Jean Pierre Mvuyekure (full marathon).The marathon is expected to attract competitors from, Rwanda and hosts Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia. Uganda’s Moses Kipsiro, who won double gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India, will be looking to win the 10km title.The top Kenyan athletes in the 42km men’s race (marathon) include Peter Kanaki Njuguna and David Tarus Kiptui. Last year, Uganda dominated the podium places of most races. Kenya, a global powerhouse in marathon, however still made its presence felt with a 1-2-3 finish in the men’s 42 kilometres.Abraham Kiplimo and Viola Chemos led Uganda to top five finishes in both the men and women’s 10km races respectively. Dorcus Inzikuru then won the women’s 21km.Kenya’s Onesmus Serem topped the men’s race followed by Rwanda’s Kajuga while Uganda’s Jackson Kiprop was in third position. Uganda’s Jane Suuto won the women’s event.
