Benard Koech and Hellen Obiri win RAK Half Marathon 2023

The much anticipated Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon returned for its 16th edition on Saturday with an electrifying race that saw world-class athletes Benard Koech and Hellen Obiri win top honours.

H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah got the race under way and praised the outstanding level of performance shown among the elite runners and also the thousands of community members taking part.

The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah emphasised that such sporting occasions are high on the Emirate’s list of priorities, as they help enhance the quality of life for participants and the overall well-being and health of society.

The hugely successful race saw intense competition from 28 elite athletes vying for the top spot.

In addition to the elite field, the race recorded participation from over 5,500 runners across four categories, including the half marathon, half marathon – relay teams of two, 5 KM, and 1 mile races.

Offering an attractive prize fund of AED 1,219,000, it saw elite and non-elite runners tackle the fantastic flat and fast course, taking them on a scenic route across the stunning Marjan Island set against the backdrop of the shimmering coastline.

Storming ahead in the men’s category and through the finish line in first place prize, was Kenyan runner Benard Koech, with a new personal best time of 58:45.



He was followed closely by his fellow countrymen Daniel Mateiko in second place, with a  time of 58:49, and third place was awarded to Richard Kimunyan, who clocked up a time of 59:37.

Similarly, the women’s race saw intense competition from start to finish, with Hellen Obiri from Kenya being crowned the winner, with a time of 1:05:05.


Gotytom Gebreslase from Ethiopia took second place, crossing the finish line with a time of 1:05:51, while the half marathon’s third place went to Ftaw Zeray, who secured a time of 1:06:04.

Speaking on the successful race, Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said the event "was a display of remarkable athleticism and unwavering spirit. We are thrilled to see our community come to together for one of our most important events of the year and to welcome participants from home and abroad."

Luca Onofrio, Head of Mass Events at RCS Sports and Events, said: “Each year, we look forward to putting forth an incredible race that not only delivers an unrivalled experience for running enthusiasts but also attracts the top-ranking elite athletes from across the globe. We are extremely proud to continue achieving and surpassing this goal, working alongside the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority for this landmark event.”