Former World Half Marathon bronze medalist Catherine Amanang’ole Reline will be on the starting line as she seeks to defend her title at the 6th edition of the Moi Girls’ Kapsowar Conservation and Charity Half Marathon in Kapsowar, Elgeyo Marakwet County.
The two-time Abu Dhabi Marathon champion will be chasing a hat-trick of victories after winning the race in 2024 and successfully defending her title in 2025.
Reline said the race forms part of her preparations for upcoming major competitions.
“I will try to defend my title as part of my preparations for other major events ahead. Though I do not have a race coming up soon, I will do my best to run well,” she said.
The former international star added that she has not yet begun intensive preparations for her next major assignments but remains optimistic about her performance.
“Right now, I have not started serious training for other major races, but I pray that I will run well and defend my title,” she added.
Last year, Reline won the race in 1:12:46, compared to her winning time of 1:11:40 in 2024, and hopes to improve on that mark this year.
She beat Mercy Chebwogen, who finished second in 1:13:13, while Emily Chepokemoi completed the podium in 1:13:30.
North Rift Public Relations Officer Boniface Tiren said more than 1,000 athletes have registered for the annual event.
He explained that the programme will feature a 2km race for primary school pupils, junior secondary students and the community, a 5km race for Under-20 girls, an 8km race for Under-20 boys, and a 21km race for elite men and women.
“In the 8km race, we are targeting school-going students to help improve their skills and nurture talent,” said Tiren.
The elite men’s and women’s 21km race, the main event of the day, will start at Chepyemit and finish at the Moi Girls’ Kapsowar compound, with the race scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m.
Last year, Kalipus Lomwai captured the men’s 21km title after finishing second the previous year.
Lomwai won in 1:02:29, ahead of Benson Murkomen, who clocked 1:03:59 for second place, while Gilbert Masai finished third in 1:04:05.
Lorna Jerono and Franklin Kibet were the winners of the women’s 5km and men’s 8km races respectively.
Representing Siyoi Training Camp in West Pokot, Jerono won the junior women’s title in 15:39, ahead of Diana Jelimo (16:05) and Faith Jeptoo (16:18).
Kibet claimed victory in the men’s 8km race in 21:24, followed by Wesley Kiplagat in 21:31 and Andrew Kiprop in 21:46.