Ethiopia’s Sutume Asefa Kebede Aims For 3rd Straight Win at Kolkata 25K Race

Ethiopian distance runner Sutume Asefa Kebede will attempt to win the Kolkata 25K – Tata Steel World 25K 2025 race in India, for the third consecutive year. The race takes place on Sunday, December 21, 2025, with a total prize fund of USD $142,214 and a special USD $25,000 bonus for any world record performance.

Kebede has won the Kolkata 25-kilometre race in 2023 and 2024. Her personal best time is 1 hour, 18 minutes, and 47 seconds, which she achieved at the same event in 2023. Last year, she completed the course in 1:19:21, and the 31-year-old hopes “to deliver a stronger performance” this year.

“I have prepared very well, my training is complete, and with confidence and experience behind me, I am ready to deliver a stronger performance than last year,” Kebede said at a press conference before the race.

Strong Competition Expected

Kebede will face competition from several experienced runners. Fellow Ethiopian Degitu Azimeraw won this race in 2017 and has a personal best time of 1:22:20 for the 25-kilometre distance. Kenyan runner Agnes Keino, who has run a half-marathon in 68 minutes and 47 seconds, is also competing.

“I am happy to be here, and I believe God will strengthen me on Sunday to run my best. With the support of my family and teammates, every race becomes part of my testimony. Looking forward to the experience,” Keino said.

Prize Money and Records

The race organizers, Procam International, have announced prize money for the top three finishers in both men’s and women’s categories. First place will receive USD $15,000, second place USD $10,000, and third place USD $7,000. An additional USD $5,000 bonus will be awarded to any runner who breaks the event record.

Other Ethiopian runners competing include Demilew Zemenaw, Ergat Heshe, Meselech Alemayehu, Mastewal Sile, Aberash Minsewo, Kuftu Tahir, Tibeb Tafere, Netsanet Tafere, and Rediet Daniel.