Baku, Azerbaijan, May 13
By Vugar Imanov - Trend:
Winner of Baku Marathon 2018 Ihor Olefirenko (born 1990) from Ukraine shared his impressions about the competition.
Olefirenko reached the finish line in one hour and six minutes, thereby setting record in Baku Marathon.
“I didn’t face any difficulties in the competition. I came here to win and struggled only with the wind,” the winner told Trend.
“I am in Baku for the first time. I liked to be here. I didn’t expect to see such a beauty. You have very friendly people and delicious cuisine. I am having a great time here.”
He expressed hope to come to Azerbaijan next year to take part in Baku Marathon.
“I am a triple champion of Ukraine in the marathon. I have participated in the Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 and ranked 13th. I came in 18th in the London Marathon. I have been professionally engaged in marathon for many years. It's a new country, a new part of the continent for me. I hope to come here again next year,” he added.
Baku Marathon 2018 was held May 13 under the auspices of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.
Held for the third time, this year’s Marathon retains its motto: Win the Wind.
As many as 18,000 people participated in this marathon.
The Baku Marathon 2018 started at the National Flag Square, running 21 kilometers all the way to the Baku Olympic Stadium.
Awards for the Baku Marathon 2018 will be granted in two categories: the first three places among men and women. Winners of the first places in both categories will be awarded 3,000 manats, whereas the second and third prize winners are to get 2,000 and 1,000 manats respectively along with gifts, medals and certificates. Besides, the winners of 4-10 places among men and women categories shall get various gifts from sponsors. Volunteers supporting the marathon and all participants will be awarded certificates by the organizers.