Spence represents Australia proudly

Home | news | Spence represents Australia proudly

For the first time in national colours, Victorian Julian Spence represented Australia proudly in the men’s marathon, finishing in a time of 2:19:40.

The coolest of all four nights on Doha’s Corniche, the marathon was still run in 30 degree heat and 45% humidity, with 18 competitors having to withdraw due to the extreme conditions, compared to 28 last week in the women’s marathon.

For the first 20km of the race Derlys Ayalya (PAR) was a break away leader, with Julian sitting 3:45 behind him but by the 25km mark the pack caught Ayalya and Zersenay Tadese (ERI) led them away.

The eventual winner was Lelisa Desisa with Spence finishing in 39th position.

The men’s marathon wraps up events held at the Corniche with only one day of competition in the World Athletics Championships Doha 2019 remaining.

Day 10 features three Australian’s – Brooke Stratton in the Long Jump, Brianna Behan and Michelle Jenneke in the women’s 100m hurdles.

Tomorrow’s action starts at 19:05 (02:05 AEDT) and runs until 21:30 (04:30 AEDT), it is being broadcast live and exclusively on Eurosport Australia (Foxtel).

Maurie Plant Meet - Melbourne

Spectator tickets on sale now. Join us at Lakeside Stadium March 29.
Buy Here

Adelaide Invitational

Tickets on sale now for the 2025 Adelaide Invitational.
Buy Here

Major Partners

Member Associations

Keep up to date with the latest news

Join the community

Australian Athletics acknowledges and pays respect to all traditional custodians of the lands of which we run, jump, throw, walk and roll throughout Australia. We pay respect to elders both past, present and emerging. We are committed to a positive future for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and to honour their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to this country and recognise the role and value of culture.
Copyright © 2025 Australian Athletics. All Rights Reserved.
Join the Community