DAR ES SALAAM, Feb. 9 -- TANZANIAN marathon icon Alphonce Simbu has once again validated his standing among the worlds elite, clinching a hardfought bronze medal at the prestigious Burj2Burj Half Marathon in Dubai on Saturday.

In one of the most competitive fields assembled this year, Simbu delivered a masterclass in tactical discipline.

He crossed the line in a blistering 59 minutes and 30 seconds, finishing just four seconds behind the winner in a pulse-pounding finale that saw the top three runners separated by a mere heartbeat.

The fast and scenic Dubai course lived up to its reputation as one of the most competitive half marathons on the international calendar, producing a thrilling finish decided by the narrowest of margins.

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