RIYADH: Russ McArthur, Riyadh Road Runners male champion in 2014, returned to winning ways in the 5-mile race held on Friday at Ishbiliyah compound.

In what was a closely contested race throughout, the lead changed hands several times between newcomer Juan Aragones and McArthur, with Aragones actually leading until the final 200m. However, Aragones made the fatal mistake of missing the right turn arrow into the home straight, and by the time he'd realized his error McArthur, who in a fine display of sportsmanship alerted Aragones of his mistake, had seized the lead and was coasting to victory.

McArthur took full advantage of the absence of the first and second placed runners from the first race of the season, proving the most adept at dealing with the late summer heat and following the course markings and coming home in an impressive time of 33:09, mere seconds before Aragones. Matus Kazimir finished a comfortable third, not threatening the leaders but never in danger of losing his podium place.

In the ladies race, it was somewhat of a procession for Claudine Roghi, who continued her fine start to the season. Nikki Layne matched Claudine stride for stride over the first lap of the course, but then pulled out of the race at the halfway stage, leaving Roghi to romp to a victory. In second and third place were Mia McDowell and Margarita Gonzalez.

Riyadh Road Runners would again like to thank Ishbiliyah compound for the use of their venue and Carrefour Tala Mall for providing food and water.

Results:

Men’s race: 1. R McArthur (UK) 33:09, 2. J Aragones (Spn) 33:34, 3. M Kazimir (Slov) 34:08

Ladies’ race: 1. C Roghi (NZ/Fra) 37:47, 2. M McDowell (Fin) 42:21, 3. M Gonzalez (Col) 42:57