Ethiopia Dominates Khon Kaen Marathon 21 with Historic Double Victory; Global Field Includes 56 Nations

11 January 2026
11:56

The 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon (Khon Kaen International Marathon 2026) concluded with immense success and impressive performances at the Golden Jubilee Convention Centre, Khon Kaen University, under the concept of “The Legend of Isan Running.” This year’s event marked a significant milestone, setting a record for international participation with runners from 56 countries competing on the AIMS-certified international standard course.

The results of the various categories are detailed below:

**Moges Abate Tefera of Ethiopia led the Marathon race from start to finish to secure the championship with a time of 2:18:11.**

Marathon (42.195 km)

The marathon title belonged to Ethiopia, showcasing remarkable dominance in both the male and female divisions.

Overall Male: Moges Abate Tefera of Ethiopia led the race from start to finish, securing the championship with a time of 2:18:11. He was followed by Barnabas Kiplimo (Kenya) in second place (2:21:22) and Wendwesen Damte (Ethiopia) in third (2:21:33).

Overall Female: Marta Tinsae Birehan, also from Ethiopia, displayed powerful form to win the women’s title with a time of 2:45:51. Nancy Githiga (Kenya) finished second (2:47:40), and Hajer Kahsay Berhe (Ethiopia) completed the podium in third place (2:52:34).

Thai Best Male: The top Thai runner was Nattawat Innum (2:33:51), followed by Chutidech Tanomsup (2:40:30) and Sirichokwattana Chairob (2:42:51).

Thai Best Female: Arunya Hinsui was the fastest Thai female runner (2:59:02), followed by Wimonphan Sangkhan (3:13:00) and Thanchanok Fakkhiew (3:13:04).

**Kindu Sewmehon Tiruneh of Ethiopia won the Half Marathon with a final time of 1:07:37.**

Half Marathon (21.10 km)

Overall Male: The championship went to Kindu Sewmehon Tiruneh of Ethiopia, who recorded a time of 1:07:37. Thai runners delivered outstanding performances, with Pongsit Chinphawo securing second place (1:14:09) and Thanachat Kongudom finishing third (1:16:14).

Overall Female: Lodkeo Inthakoumman from the Lao PDR successfully defended her title, crossing the line in 1:21:43. Faya Hussen Ogato (Ethiopia) took second (1:25:43), and Thai runner Ornanong Wongsorn claimed third place (1:26:03).

Thai Best Male: The top three Thai finishers were Tannatorn Kiryracht (1:16:17), Sarawut Krathongyam (1:16:37), and Tanakhan Kongkaew (1:16:42).

Thai Best Female: Monthian Fravi led the Thai women (1:26:36), ahead of Chonthicha Chaiamornphaisan (1:27:56) and Kewalin Pengkham (1:28:27).

Mini Marathon (11.55 km)

Overall Male: Ilia Zmaznev (Russia) claimed the title with a time of 36:07. Thanakit Patthamarisa placed second (37:03), and Thirayut Kingkham came third (37:35).

Overall Female: Thai runner Parreya Sonsem achieved the top spot (44:23), followed by Toly Phengphalang (Lao PDR) at 45:17 and Darin Jaion (Thailand) at 45:26.

Associate Professor Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, M.D., President of Khon Kaen University, congratulated the success of the event: “The 21st Khon Kaen International Marathon reflects the quality and safety of the competition course, which gained the confidence of over 10,000 runners from around the world who competed for the Royal Trophies graciously presented by His Majesty the King, Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana, and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.”

Mr. Khajonkiet Rakpanichmanee, Governor of Khon Kaen Province, further commented, “Today’s success confirms that Khon Kaen is genuinely stepping forward to become an international sports city. The warm hospitality of the local community and the comfortable, cool weather—at just 14 °C—helped many runners achieve their personal bests.”

The competition not only raised sporting standards but is also projected to stimulate the local economy by over 100 million baht, elegantly reaffirming Khon Kaen’s status as a liveable metropolis and the sports tourism hub of the Northeast region.

The Khon Kaen International Marathon 2026 was hosted successfully over two consecutive days. On 10 January 2026, the event featured the Kids Run and Fun Run categories under the theme “Fun Run and Fun Learn.” The international standard races, held on 11 January 2026 under the theme “The Legend of Isan Running,” serve as a vital mechanism in driving Khon Kaen University toward its goal of becoming A World-Leading Research and Development University. This supports the university’s Internationalisation policy, aimed at creating awareness and Visibility on the Global Stage, while also strengthening concrete ecosystems of collaboration with global partners.

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