CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Gyan Babu from Kunda Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh won the Men’s full marathon and Senait Kefelegn from Ethiopia won the women’s full marathon at the 13th edition of the Freshworks Chennai Marathon powered by Chennai Runners, event here today. The 2025 Marathon saw over 25,000 enthusiastic runners participating across categories. This sea of runners was cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd that had gathered at various points along the route of the marathon early this morning from 3.30 am onwards.

The Men’s full marathon was a close affair with just 11 minutes being the difference in timing among the first 5 finishers. It was a tough race and Gyan Bau had to dig in deep to keep off challenge from the previous edition winner, Abhishek Soni, to clinch the top spot and come in first. Abhishek came in the second spot a couple of minutes later. Vinoth Kumar who finished third last year, just missed out, coming in at fourth position.

The Women’s full marathon also saw some spirited running battles with Senait securing top spot. Last year’s third place finisher, Bijoya Barman held on, finishing in the same spot in this marathon.

Gyan Babu, winner of the Men’s Full marathon said, “I love running marathons. This is the 2nd marathon I am running. I am very happy to come to Chennai and I will come back next year. I trained hard for this marathon by practicing a lot in Ooty. My dream is to represent India in marathons at the Asian Games I am very happy with the Chennai marathon. The city is very nice, and the facilities are good, and we had a very good guide every step of the way. The volunteers were very nice and helped me. There were enough of water points and the weather was also very nice. I was motivated to run well and winning here is a dream for me.”

Senait Kefelegn, winner of the Women’s Full marathon said, “I participated in the 22nd December midnight run in Bengaluru and came here directly to run. This is my first time in India. I am very happy with India and especially Chennai. I faced no problems and running was fun here. The facilities and the support that the organizers have provided is truly outstanding and for sure I will return next year.”

#ChennaiMarathon2025 #FreshworksMarathon #MarathonWinners #GyanBabu #SenaitKefelegn