DAR ES SALAAM: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has congratulated marathoners Gabriel Geay and Emmanuel Dinday following their podium finishes at the 2026 Daegu Marathon in South Korea.
Gabriel Geay made history by securing his second consecutive victory in Daegu, clinching the title in a dramatic sprint finish.
Geay crossed the line in 2:08:08—the same time as Ethiopia’s Chimdessa Gudeta— but a final burst of speed ensured the Tanzanian edged out his rival for the gold medal and the 200,000 US dollar prize.
His compatriot, Emmanuel Dinday, followed to claim third place with a time of 2:08:16.
In a message shared via Instagram, the President praised the athletes’ dedication and the impact of their success on Tanzania’s international sporting reputation.
“Heartfelt congratulations to Gabriel Geay for winning first place for the second consecutive time, and Emmanuel Dinday for securing third place at the 2026 Daegu Marathon,” the President wrote. “You prepared well, worked diligently, and truly deserved this success.”
The President emphasised that these victories serve as an inspiration for the nation, noting that such achievements “raise the Tanzanian flag high” and encourage other national teams to excel in future competitions.
Additionally, President Samia reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering athletic talent, pledging continued improvements to training environments to ensure Tanzanian athletes remain competitive on the global stage.
“These achievements enhance your international sports standing, raise the Tanzanian flag high, and serve as inspiration for other athletes and our teams to excel in future competitions.”
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Additionally, President Hassan reiterated the government’s ongoing support for athletes, ensuring that the right conditions for training and success are continually improved.
“The government will continue to strengthen the environment that enables athletes to train well and become top competitors wherever they go,” she assured.
The marathon was closely contested from the start, with Geay and Dinday maintaining their positions in the lead pack.
By the 30km mark, Geay was locked in a tactical battle with Gudeta, who briefly seized the lead.
However, showing remarkable stamina, Geay surged ahead in the final kilometre to win by the narrowest of margins.
Dinday’s third-place finish capped a significant day for Tanzanian athletics, ensuring a strong podium presence for Tanzania with two of the nation’s runners standing among the top three in South Korea.