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Large Pack Still Together at 10 Miles

Posted August 16th, 2008 at 8:09 PM by Jared Markowitz

Section: News & Results, Marathons, Olympics

A large lead pack is still intact 10 miles into the 2008 Women’s Olympic Marathon. Romanian Constantina Tomescu-Dita (Pictured) was the leader of the 40 woman pack at the 10 mile mark, reaching it in 57:49. The pace thus far has been sluggish but consistent, with opening 5k splits of 18:24, 17:46, 17:42.

Britain’s Liz Yelling has assumed most of the pacing duties despite a nasty spill around a tight corner, undoubtedly caused by the light rain that has begun to fall on the course. Also at the front of the lead pack is World Record Holder Paula Radcliffe and fan favorite Zhou Chunxiu of China.

Notable faces in the middle of the lead pack are Ethiopian Gete Wami, China’s Zhu Xiaolin, and America’s Blake Russell. Kenya’s Catherine Ndereba is hanging on the back of the lead pack (as is her custom) while Japanese favorite Reiko Tosa looks to be struggling on the back. American Magdalena Lewy-Boulet is about 3 minutes of the lead pack while American favorite Deena Kastor dropped out early with an apparent foot injury.

Stay tuned as a big move is likely coming…

Reporting by Adam Jacobs also used in this race update.