Rwanda Athletics Federation (RAF) have praised Thomas Dushimumukiza and Marthe Yankurije for their bronze medal triumphs in Rotary Dar Marathon over the weekend.

Dushumumukiza claimed bronze in men’s full marathon of the annual Tanzanian event while compatriot Yankurije also scooped bronze, but this time in women’s half-marathon.

The country was represented by four athletes in total – three men and one woman. Alexis Nizeyimana, last year’s gold medalist, finished fourth in full marathon while Noel Hitimana settled for fifth position in men’s half-marathon.

Speaking to Times Sport on Tuesday, RAF president, Fidele Mubiligi was full of praise for the four Rwandan runners in Dar and tipped them for improvement in future events.

"Consistency which has characterized their performances in recent events is what makes me believe they will do much better in future competitions. For Dushimumukiza in particular, it was his second international competition, he is a promising talent,” said Mubiligi.

From its humble beginnings in 2009, as a charity walk with 700 participants, the Rotary Dar Marathon has now grown into one of the largest athletics events in the region.

Apart from Nizeyimana, the other three Rwandans were making their debut appearance in the multi-category race.

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