Great Australian Run 2009 Results: Wanjiru beaten

Melbourne, Australia: Sammy Wanjiru came to Australia for the Great Australian Run and no doubt was the overwhelming favorite to win this widely popular 15KM race. However, not only did Wanjiru not finish first (not many would have bet against the reigning half marathon world record holder), but he also failed to finish amongst the medals.

To be fair to Wanjiru, he landed pretty late for the event since it was reported that his daughter was ill. So, who won? The race was won by the three-time Austrian Olympian Gunter Weidlinger in 43:01 minutes. Weidlinger’s training partner, Australia’s Collis Birmingham and last year’s third placed finisher was second 18 seconds behind the winner. Martin Dent, also of Australia finished third edging out Wanjiru from the final medal position. Wanjiru finished more than a minute behind Weidlinger.

This years race was run in wet conditions, with a finish at the F1 Grand Prix Circuit, and probably the weather and the late arrival combined to nail Wanjiru.
The Great Australian Run is very popular amongst the international elite athletes. Last years race saw Haile Gebrselassie win the race ahead of Patrick Makau.

In the Womens race, in the absence of Russia’s Irina Mikitenko and Deena Kastor (USA) due to late withdrawals, it was a local runner who took full advantage to win the race. Australia’s Nikki Chapple won the race in 50:18, Benita Willis finishing second in 51:15, and Britain’s Helen Clitheroe was third in 51:17.

Complete timing results on the event website.

Results (Men)