Viola Chepngeno, Daniel Simiu Ebenyo dominate Athletics Kenya's cross country meet in Bomet

Athletics Kenya cross country meet in Bomet

Viola Chepngeno, Daniel Simiu Ebenyo dominate Athletics Kenya's cross country meet in Bomet

Abigael Wafula 12:23 - 30.11.2024

Viola Chepngeno and Daniel Simiu Ebenyo oozed class as they claimed top honours in the senior races at the Athletics Kenya cross country meet in Bomet.

Viola Chepngeno and Daniel Simiu claimed top honours in the senior races at the fourth Athletics Kenya weekend meet in Bomet.

Daniel Simiu Ebenyo braved the rains to take the win in the senior men’s race, taking the lead from gun to tape and claiming top honours nicely. This is his first race since making his full marathon debut at the Chicago Marathon.

The world 10,000m silver medallist looked very comfortable running in the rain and there is no doubt that he dominates all surfaces. Edwin Bett finished second in the race as Peter Tuitoek rounded up the podium.

In the women’s race, Viola Chepngeno ran a tactical race and her effort eventually paid off with a win with Sandrafelis Chebet Tuwei of the National Police Service coming in second in the race. Joyline Cherotich rounded up the podium.

The winners of the senior race will walk away with Ksh 50,000 with those who finish second and third pocketing Ksh 30,000 and 20,000 respectively.

Meanwhile, the men’s under-20 8km race saw Emmanuel Lemiso from the Nakuru Mau Training Camp outshine Clinton Kimutai to claim the win in the tight race. Brian Kiptoo finished an impressive third in the race.

The women’s Under-20 6km race was also very competitive with youngsters from various parts of the country hoping to showcase their talents. Florence Chepkoech from Lemotit was the lucky one as she claimed top honours.

Alice Chemtai from Kiprun and another athlete from Lemotit, Cynthia Chepkirui finished second and third respectively.

The women’s 2km loop race saw Naomi Korir showcase her dominance to claim the win ahead of Kapsabet-based runner Nelly Jepchirchir, who gave a spirited fight but it was just enough for a second-place finish.

Olympian Lilian Odira sealed the podium, competing in her first cross country this season as she looks to have a great build-up ahead of 2025. Speaking after her win, Naomi Korir expressed satisfaction with her performance and noted that she will be switching to the 800m after competing in the 400m for long.

“Endurance is key. I am currently focused on the cross-country series, but next season, I plan to shift my focus to the 800. Nelly Jepchirchir is my mentor and a great inspiration to me,” Jepchirchir said.

The men’s 2km loop race saw Reynold Cheruiyot claim top honours with Vincent Kipketer finishing third in the race.

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