For the first time in the history of the Georgia Marathon a Gambian has participated in the event this year.

Ansu Sowe, one of the Gambia’s finest ever middle and long distance runners, flew out of Banjul last Wednesday to join thousands of runners from around the world seeking for glory in the ING-sponsored marathon. The sun never came out as predicted, but thankfully there was no blistering heat, rain or tornadoes to affect the race last Sunday.

Gambia Sports Online reports that more than 15,000 registered for the event and throngs hit the ground running from Centennial Olympic Park shortly after 7 a.m. as thousands of supporters cheered the runners on. Wearing bib number 1006 and running in the United States for the first time, Ansu made a point of breaking into the front pack. After all there were the ever strong East Africans led by a number of Kenyans.

The Gambian found the going a bit windier than he would have liked but made sure he achieved his set aim of finishing among the top ten. Ansu completed the 26.2 mile course in a time of 2:35:30 and finished 7th. James Boit, a Kenyan living in the United States, won the race in a time of 2:22:16 for his first major marathon victory. But the Gambian celebrated his position as if he was the overall winner.

“I am very pleased with my placement,” Ansu told Gambia Sports Online. “I want to thank my sponsors Gamtel/Gamcel for giving me the opportunity to run in this race.”