Zimbabwean Stephen Muzhingi became the first man in 23 years to win the Comrades Marathon three successive times with a convincing victory in the 86th edition of the race in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday.
South African Fanie Matshipa, who had done a lot of the hard work, pushing the pace in the second half, held on to finish second.
Russian Elena Nurgalieva, the defending champion, recovered from an early fall to win her sixth title in the women's race ahead of twin sister Olesya.
Muzhingi's countryman, Point Chaza, had broken away early and held a lead of more than seven minutes at the halfway mark, which he crossed in 2:36.19, on record pace.
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