Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) long-distance star Nyima Camara continued her dominance on Sunday by winning the 2025 Pirang Marathon Road Race for the third year running, reinforcing her status as the country’s leading marathon specialist.

This year’s edition was held under the theme “Run For A Safer Environment.”

Camara stormed to victory in the women’s 21km race with an impressive time of 1:27:00, finishing comfortably ahead of Gambia Police Force duo Binta Jaiteh and Mariama S. Bah, who claimed second and third places respectively.

In the men’s 21km contest, Mamadou Alieu Bah of Bayaka Athletics Club emerged victorious in a time of 1:10:19, showcasing strong endurance to outpace seasoned Gambia Police Force runner Samba Bah, who took silver. Alagie Ousman Saine of GAF placed third to complete the podium.

The 10km races also delivered excitement. Kaddy Mambureh once again proved untouchable in the women’s category, crossing the finish line in 37:42 to retain her crown. She was followed by Police athlete Jainaba Gano in second place and Mariama Barry of Jabang in third.

In the men’s 10km field, Muhammed F. Janneh of Gunjur stunned the competition with a remarkable winning time of 30:25, leaving Gambia Police Force’s experienced marathoner Echen Obega to settle for second. Sanna Wally of New Yundum secured third place.

The 5km races produced notable upsets. In the women’s event, Mariama Tambedou of Gunjur showcased her speed to take first place ahead of Mariama Jawo of GAF and Isatou Jarra of GPF.

However, the biggest shock came in the men’s 5km contest where Ba Ismaila Touray of Gunjur crossed the line first, beating crowd favourite Abdoulie Saidy, who was forced to withdraw. Dawda Touray of Gunjur claimed second, while Alieu Jammeh of Kitty finished third.

The 2025 Pirang Marathon once again highlighted the growing depth of Gambian road racing talent, with emerging athletes challenging established names in thrilling fashion.

By Ebrima KB Sonko