Tanzanian long-distance runner Alphonce Felix Simbu finished third at the Burj 2Burj Half Marathon held on February 8, 2026, in Saudi Arabia, marking a strong start to his year.
Simbu completed the 21-kilometre race in 59 minutes and 30 seconds. He was narrowly beaten by Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegrl, who won in 59 minutes and 36 seconds, and Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir, who finished second in 59 minutes and 28 seconds.
Speaking to The Respondent Online, Simbu’s coach, Denis Denis, praised his performance, saying the athlete had already improved his personal best.
“He started the year well, lowering his previous record from 60 minutes and 3 seconds to 59 minutes and 30 seconds. This performance shows he is ready to compete even stronger in the coming events,” Coach Denis said.
He added, “I am confident that Simbu will further improve his times in upcoming full marathons.”
Fans and athletics enthusiasts across Tanzania took to social media and WhatsApp to congratulate Simbu on his impressive showing at the international event.