NAIROBI, June 30 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's Philemon Mbaaru and Jane Ngima won the Safaricom Lewa Marathon on Saturday. Mbaaru won in 2.22:21 as Peter Wahome came in second after taking 2.22:33 ahead of Cyrus Muturi (2.23:23) who was third.

The women's category saw Ngima take the title in 2:51:36 edging out Esther Macharia who clocked 2:53:41 for second with Mary Mwaniki completing the podium with third spot in 5:29:31.

The Lewa Marathon is an internationally acclaimed event run through one of Africa's most breathtaking wildlife conservancies.

Although regarded as one of the toughest marathons in the world, runners of all abilities take part -- from walkers and amateurs to elite runners like Eliud Kipchoge, the reigning Kenyan Olympic gold medalist.

Over 1400 athletes from over 20 countries and regions, including China, took part in the race.

Organizers had a rough time to clear the Rhinos, elephants and Buffalos who had moved to the course, which delayed the race a bit. But there was no stopping the Kenyans as they showed the world what they have.