Maldivian athlete Shamha Ahmed delivered an impressive performance at the 2025 Runtalya Marathon, clinching second place in the women’s category at the internationally recognized event held in Antalya, Turkey, on Sunday, 6th April 2025. The annual marathon drew competitors from around the world, making it one of the region’s most anticipated long-distance races.
Shamha, who once specialized in sprinting, has made a remarkable transition into long-distance running over recent years. At the Runtalya Marathon, she crossed the finish line with a time of 3 hours, 11 minutes, and 53 seconds, just over 12 minutes behind the race winner, Natalia Karmen of Russia, who completed the course in 2 hours, 59 minutes, and 57 seconds. The third-place finisher was Yulia Farnes from Kyrgyzstan, who clocked in at 3 hours, 14 minutes, and 6 seconds.
The Runtalya Marathon is a notable event on Shamha’s calendar and served as her most competitive race of the year. Her achievement in Turkey adds to a growing list of milestones in her long-distance career. In September 2022, she recorded her personal best and national record for the Maldives at the Berlin Marathon, completing the race in 3 hours, 2 minutes, and 41 seconds.
Shamha’s continued progress in international marathons reflects the rising presence of Maldivian athletes on the global stage. Her dedication and achievements not only highlight individual talent but also showcase the Maldives as a country that nurtures athletic excellence.
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