Radcliffe takes dramatic win in New York

Paula Radcliffe took victory in the ING New York City Marathon after a close battle with Ethiopia’s Gete Wami.

Radcliffe, running her first marathon for two years, led for long periods but struggled to shake off the persistent Wami.

Wami claimed the lead in the final mile but Radcliffe responded with a strong finish to win in two hours 23 minutes and nine seconds.

Two-time defending champion Jelena Prokopcuka finished third, clocking 2:26.13, 3:04 behind Radcliffe, who picked up a winners’ cheque for £65,000.

Wami was also rewarded well, her second place earning her £125,000 as the first winner of the World Marathon Majors Series.