Jordanian marathon runner Abu Drais beaten by stray dog

Amid celebrations for the end of the Rio Olympics, few spared a thought for Jordan’s Methkal Abu Drais, who finished the marathon behind a Japanese comedian, a stray dog

Rio de Janeiro: Amid celebrations for the end of the Rio Olympics, few spared a thought for Jordan’s Methkal Abu Drais, who finished the marathon behind a Japanese comedian, a stray dog.

Abu Drais

It sounds like a punchline to a joke, but that’s what happened as the 32-year-old army sergeant trotted home last in yesterday’s race, finishing 140th, more than 37 minutes behind gold medallist Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya.

Enough time perhaps to fashion a sign warning “Slippery When Wet” for rivals toppling like tenpins along the slippery concrete surface after a downpour.

“It wasn’t my best day perhaps,” Abu Drais said. “But my presence at the Olympics among the best marathon runners in the world is an achievement for me.” A stray black dog made a cameo appearance, to further cheers, trotting alongside runners.

Abu Drais was huffing and puffing his way to the closing stages of the race.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!