Kenyan athletes showcased their prowess on Saturday during the fifth leg of the Athletics Kenya (AK) Cross Country series, held at the Ol Kalou Arboretum in Nyandarua County.
Ekalale Triumphs in Senior Women’s 10km Race
Hellen Ekalale, a Kenyan athlete based in Japan, dominated the senior women’s 10km race, winning with an impressive time of 35:53.1. From the outset, Ekalale led the race, maintaining a significant gap of 50 meters by the first kilometer. She attributed her victory to her recent training in Keringet, South Rift, and her confidence from winning a 5000m race in Japan two weeks prior.
“I was really confident coming into today’s race because I’ve been doing well in Japan. As soon as the race started, I knew I could win it, so I pushed myself hard,” said Ekalale after her victory.
Christine Njoki Nalimo from North Rift secured second place with a time of 36:25.1, while Joylin Cherotich from South Rift took third in 37:13.1.
Langat Clinches Senior Men’s 10km Title
The senior men’s 10km race was a closely contested battle among Vincent Kibet Langat, Wesley Kipkemoi Yego, and John Lomoni. The trio exchanged leads throughout much of the race. Langat, representing South Rift, managed a decisive break in the final moments, clocking 32:05.2 to claim victory.
Yego of KDF finished second in 32:08.9, with Lomoni taking third in 32:18.4.
Under-20 Girls’ Race Highlighted by South Rift Dominance
The Under-20 girls’ 6km race was dominated by athletes from South Rift. However, the race also saw several participants requiring first aid assistance after collapsing during the event, underscoring the challenging nature of the course.
Dignitaries and a Missed Appearance
The event drew notable attendees, including Nyandarua Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha, AK First Vice President Paul Mutwii, and AK National Treasurer David Miano. However, Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who was expected to grace the event, was unable to attend due to time constraints while visiting an Under-17 holiday training camp near the venue.
The Ol Kalou leg of the Cross Country series highlighted Kenya’s depth of talent and the resilience of its athletes as they continue to prepare for future international competitions.
