The Kericho Cross Country, held on 5th October 2024 at the Kericho Teachers Training College (KTTC), was an exhilarating event that saw some of Kenya’s top athletes showcase their talents. With over 1,200 athletes participating, the event has grown significantly, attracting larger crowds and higher stakes every year. This year, the competition featured three main categories: the 10 KM race, the Mixed Relay, and the Masters Race for athletes aged 50 and above. The day was filled with excitement, as athletes battled not only for glory but also for a share of the Ksh1.25 million prize pool.
Sheila Chelangat and Vincent Kibet: Stars of the 10 KM Race
The 10 KM senior category was the highlight of the day, attracting the most participants and attention. The women’s race saw over 140 runners, while the men’s event had a staggering 450 participants. In the women’s 10 KM race, Sheila Chelangat of Kenya Police dominated the competition, clocking in an impressive time of 33:18.95 minutes. This victory earned her the grand prize of Ksh150,000, a well-deserved reward for her hard work and determination.
Chelangat’s performance demonstrated her strength and endurance, setting her apart from her competitors. Trailing her was Diana Chepkorir of Keringet, Nakuru County, who finished second with a time of 33:33.81 minutes. Maurine Jepkoech of Kipchiloi, Nakuru County, claimed the third spot, crossing the finish line in 33:32.81 minutes. These athletes also walked away with cash prizes of Ksh100,000 and Ksh75,000, respectively.
In the men’s 10 KM race, Vincent Kibet Langat from Nakuru County emerged as the champion, completing the race in 30:04.52 minutes. Kibet’s powerful run saw him lead the pack and claim the Ksh150,000 prize, proving himself as one of the most formidable athletes in the region. The second place went to Nicholas Kipkorir, who finished just six seconds later with a time of 30:10.52 minutes. Mathew Kipkoech of Elgeyo Marakwet County secured the third position, finishing the race in 30:14.79 minutes.
Cash Prizes for Top Performers
The 10 KM race offered substantial rewards for the top 10 finishers in both the men’s and women’s categories. The winners of each category received Ksh150,000, while the second and third finishers earned Ksh100,000 and Ksh75,000 respectively. Runners who finished in fourth and fifth positions were awarded Ksh50,000 and Ksh40,000, and those finishing in positions six to ten each took home Ksh20,000. This generous prize distribution reflects the commitment of the event organizers to support and promote local athletic talent.
Mixed Relay: Team Keringet Takes the Win
The Mixed Relay race was another thrilling competition of the day. This category featured teams comprising both male and female athletes working together to secure the best possible time. In a close contest, Team Keringet from Nakuru County emerged victorious, completing the relay in 23:46.24 minutes. The team, consisting of Daniel Kimoiyo, Diana Chepkorir, Daniel Kinyanjui, and Janet Chepngetich, exhibited excellent teamwork and strategy, earning them the first prize of Ksh50,000.
Close behind was Team Ainamoi from Kericho County. Their team, featuring Laban Chepkwony, Carren Chebet, Ngeno Kipngetich, and Winny Chebet, finished the race in 23:46.66 minutes, securing the second place and a cash prize of Ksh30,000. Team Kiptere, also from Kericho County, completed the race in 24:45.44 minutes, taking the third spot and earning Ksh20,000. The mixed relay category added a dynamic and collaborative element to the day’s event, highlighting the importance of teamwork in athletics.
Masters Race: A Showcase of Experience and Endurance
The Masters Race, designed for athletes aged 50 and above, was divided into two categories: a 2 KM race for women and a 4 KM race for men. The women’s category saw Joyce Kirui of Nakuru County dominate, finishing the race in 8:07.51 minutes. Her performance earned her the top prize of Ksh30,000, with Sheila Kasyoka of Nairobi County and Lewnida of Nandi County taking the second and third positions, clocking 8:37.90 and 8:54.50 minutes respectively.
In the men’s Masters category, Francis Bowen was the standout performer, completing the 4 KM race in 12:55.00 minutes to win the Ksh30,000 prize. Peter Bii took the second place, finishing in 13:05.67 minutes, while Andrew Sigei secured the third position with a time of 13:12.33 minutes. The Masters category was a remarkable display of endurance, showcasing the athletic abilities of seasoned runners who continue to compete at a high level despite their age.
A Look Ahead: Planning for the 2025 Kericho Cross Country
With the 2024 edition of the Kericho Cross Country concluding on a high note, the event organizers are already setting their sights on the 2025 competition. They aim to expand the event even further, seeking more partners and sponsors to enhance the experience for participants and spectators alike. The objective is to not only attract elite athletes but also encourage wider community participation, making the Kericho Cross Country a staple in Kenya’s sporting calendar.
The Kericho Cross Country 2024 was a resounding success, with Sheila Chelangat and Vincent Kibet Langat shining as the stars of the event. With increased participation, exciting categories, and generous prize money, the event continues to grow, contributing significantly to Kenya’s rich athletic heritage. The organizers’ dedication to improving the race each year ensures that it remains an essential platform for both emerging and established athletes to showcase their talents.
As preparations begin for the 2025 edition, the Kericho Cross Country stands as a testament to the vibrant running culture in Kenya, offering athletes the opportunity to shine on home soil. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a fan of athletics, the Kericho Cross Country is an event to watch in the coming years.
