CUBA, November 17, 2008. The Marabana marathon took over the main avenues of the Cuban capital on Sunday filling them with a colorful atmosphere and determination.

Despite the threat of rain, a large public welcomed the runners along the 42 kilometer 195 meters, who defied strong winds, sea mist from waves, the uphill sections and tiredness to give the Havana onlookers a good time watching what has become a classic sporting event.

Like clockwork, the Organizing Committee made adjustments to put on an excellent race with the participation of nearly 3,100 runners from 82 nations.

Havana resident Aguelmis Rojas, an important name among Cuban marathon runners, returned to stardom with a time of 2 hours, 20 minutes and 52 seconds to win this years men’s Marabana. Daylin Belmonte, from Santiago de Cuba, won the women’s crown with a time of 2:52:45. Daylin won the half marathon (21 kilometers) in 2007.

AFTER WINNING, DAYLIN SAID SHE WANTS TO DEDICATE HERSELF TO RUNNING MARATHONS.

"I was very reserved during the first 21 kilometers because of the morning weather conditions. I thought I could make a 2:18 time, but what’s most important about this victory is it has given me confidence because I know that a can return to my best times," Rojas told the press.

Belmonte said, "At no point did I feel tired because I prepared for several hard months for the race, especially the stretch where waves spray over the seaside Malecon wall. I thought a lot about Mariela Gonzalez, the Rio de Janeiro champion, since I was alone at the front like her, and that gave me strength."

Finishing second and third behind Rojas was Henry Jaen (Satiago de Cuba-2:27:18) and Yosbel Arbolaez (Villa Clara-2:28:21). Behind Belmonte were, Raquel Martinez (La Habana Province-3:17:07) and Yadira Gonzalez (Granma-3:21:21).

The winners of the half marathon were: (Men) 1.- Norbert Jordan (Holguin-1:10:33), 2.- Mauri Castillo (Ciego de Avila-1:10:34) and 3.- Jose A. Suarez (Villa Clara-1:10:48). Among the women: 1.- Yumisleidis Fuentes (Santiago-1:19:29), 2.- Yudisleidis Castillo (Santiago-1:20:27) and 3.- Yanitza Perez (Las Tunas-1:25:05).

(Cubaminrex – AIN)

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