CHEPSAITA, Uasin Gishu, December 7 – Samwel Chebolei edged a tight race to win the senior men’s 10km at the Great Chepsaita Cross Country event at the Chepsaita Secondary School on Saturday.
Chebolei clocked 0:30:49 to cut the tape, ahead of Robert Kiprop (0:30:58) and Matthew Kipruto (0:31:12) in second and third respectively.
The 23-year-old conceded the competition had brought out the best of him.
“The competition has not been easy because those who I was running against are some of the best athletes around. We have local as well as international athletes but I thank God I have been able to give my best and win the race,” Chebolei said.
The Japan-based long distance runner is hoping to don the Team Kenya singlet at the World Championships in Tokyo.
“It is my hope that I will make the Kenyan team and represent my country at the World Championships in Tokyo. I am hopeful that next year is going to be a great year for me,” the 10,000m specialist said.
Also hoping to fly the national flag high is Kiprop who has been on a good form this year.
“I am happy with the way things have worked out this season so far. I won at the Iten Cross Country Series and here today I have finished second. I am happy because this means I am progressing well. I now want to go and rest for the festive season even as I plan for the new year and how I am going to make Team Kenya,” he said.
Ugandan reigns supreme
In the senior women’s race, Uganda’s Loice Chekwemoi surprised the home favourites when she clocked 0:34:32 to cross the finish line first.
Ethiopia’s Shimeles Molla timed 0:35:37 to claim second as Kenya’s Celestine Biwot finished third in 0:36:43.
The winner was delighted to have triumphed at the ‘home of champions’, adding that this was a moment to savour for many years in her career.
“I thank God, my coach and management. Today was really tough and I did not expect to come and win in the home of champions. This is very special. When I was running, I told myself that I am also a champion and encouraged myself to fight for it,” she said.
Today’s event was graced by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki who exalted the broader perspective of the competition, which is to enhance educational opportunities for destitute children through scholarships.
