Prize for Canadian soil record en route to Addis Ababa
On May 25th, 2014, Yemane Tsegay of Ethiopia crossed the tape in Ottawa in 2:06:54 breaking the Canadian soil record and putting a big exclamation mark on his victory at the Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon.
Yemane Tsegay crosses the finish line in 2:06:54 setting a new Canadian soil record
Previously held by Deressa Chimsa (also of Ethiopia), who ran 2:07:05 at the 2013 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, the Canadian soil record marks the fastest marathon time run in Canada by a runner of any nationality. In Ottawa, breaking the record comes with a not insignificant bonus of a brand new Hyundai Sante Fe provided by Pathway Hyundai in Ottawa.
Understanding that not every runner wants to deal with the logistics and paperwork of transporting an SUV overseas, Run Ottawa made arrangements to pay a cash equivalent to the winner. However, Yemane Tsegay is not every runner.
Indeed, Tsegay loved the SUV from Pathway Hyundai so much that he wanted to drive that very vehicle when back home in Ethiopia. So, after consulting several experts in the fields of shipping and customs, Run Ottawa arranged for transportation of the vehicle to Addis Ababa. It is now en route.
We are happy that Tsegay was able to get the prize that he wanted and hope that he remembers Ottawa fondly every time he gets behind the wheel.
Race Director John Halvorsen gives the thumbs up as the Sante Fe awaits loading for shipment