Wami collects half-million prize but wanted NYC marathon win
Reuters South Africa, South Africa - November 5, 2007

Gete Wami collected her $500,000 prize as winner of the World Marathon Majors women's title on Monday but the Ethiopian was still dissatisfied with her second place in the New York City Marathon at the weekend.

Wami, competing 35 days after winning in Berlin, lost her race-long duel with Paula Radcliffe over the last few hundred metres on Sunday although she did enough to clinch the big payday with the most points from major marathons over a two-year period.

"It was such a tough race, it was a bit harder than normal," Wami told Reuters through an interpreter. "I would normally have more preparation time and recovery time.

"It was only five weeks after Berlin. If not, the result would have been different," said Wami, who finished 23 seconds behind Briton Radcliffe.

The diminutive Wami foiled twice New York champion Jelena Prokopcuka's bid to win the majors crown with her gutsy run.

Had Wami not competed, Latvia's Prokopcuka could have taken the jackpot with her third-place finish.

"I ran not only to beat Jelena but I ran to win the race," Wami said. "I beat Jelena, but came in second."

Asked about her winnings, Wami, 32, said: "Initially I plan to help my family. From there on I hope to help orphans, educate them and see them to a better future."