Rotorua Marathon: Uchino wins marathon

Masataka Uchino has become the second Japanese winner of the Rotorua Marathon.

Uchino held off three-time champion Phil Costley to win his first marathon on New Zealand soil today.

Meanwhile, Bay of Plenty runner Sally Gibbs has won the women's title ahead of fellow Tauranga athlete Jess Ruthe.

Gibbs was elated after crossing the line and said it was a great way to celebrate her 50th birthday, racing in the 50th Rotorua Marathon.