Amos Kiprotich and Doreen Kibet outpaced a formidable field of both local and international athletes to claim the top honors at the 2026 Betika 15km Road Race in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
The 25-year-old Kiprotich won the men’s title despite travelling all the way from Keringet, Nakuru County, delivered a masterclass in pacing by crossing the finish line in 44:33 seconds. The competition remained fierce until the final stretch, with Denis Kipkurui securing second place in 44:47 followed closely by Kiprono Kipkemoi who rounded out the podium with a time of 44:59.
Kiprotich noted that training in Keringet prepared him for the elevation but emphasized that Iten remains unique due to the high density of elite talent it attracts.
“I was looking forward to challenging myself against formidable competitors. Races of this nature are vital as they sharpen athletes and provide the perfect platform to prepare for the larger international stages, which I aim to conquer next,” said Kiprotich.
The women’s race was equally captivating as 23-year-old Kibet from Kapsabet in Nandi County, secured a dominant victory with a time of 51:06.
Having previously finished second at the Betika Kapsabet race in April, Kibet’s performance today showed remarkable growth as she led Judy Jepnge’tich and Naomi Chemweno, who finished in 52:52.
Kibet, who expressed a deep fondness for the challenging landscape of Iten, stated that the terrain is certainly not for the weak and serves as a true test of an athlete’s mettle. She revealed her intentions to use her winnings to secure professional management, highlighting that for any athlete to transition successfully to the global stage, having a dedicated team is essential to managing the business of sports so the athlete can focus entirely on their training and performance.
Betika’s Group Head of Brand Eric Mwiti said “ Iten has always been the barometer for athletic excellence and today was no different. Seeing over 1,000 athletes from across the region and beyond converge here proves that the Betika Iten Road Race is becoming a critical fixture for those looking to test their limits against the very best.”
Both Kiprotich and Kibet walked away with KES 250,000 each, while the runners-up earned KES 150,000. The third-place finishers took home KES 100,000. Recognition extended down to tenth position, with fourth and fifth place athletes earning KES 50,000 and KES 40,000 respectively, while those finishing between sixth and tenth received KES 20,000 each, ensuring a wide impact on the local athletic community.
The Betika Iten Road Race continues to serve as a beacon for aspiring runners, bridging the gap between grassroots potential and professional excellence. As the athletes return to their respective training camps, the energy left behind in Iten serves as a reminder of Kenya’s enduring legacy as a global powerhouse in long-distance running
Top ten results
Women results
- Doreen Cherop Kibet 51:07
- Judy Jepngetich Chepaskwony 52.00
- Naomi Chepngeno Chepngeno 52:10
- Joan Jepkosgei Kilimo 52:18
- Brenda Jemutai Kiplagat 52:28
- Gladys Cherop Longari 52:43
- Maurine Chepkorir Chepkorir 52:52
- Viola Chemos Munerya 53:03
- Damaris Chepkemoi Towett 53:07
- Caren Jeruto 53:12
Men results
- Amos Kiprotich 44:33
- Dennis Kipkurui Kipkurui 44:47
- Kiprono Kipkemoi 44:59
- Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich 45:03
- Mathew Kipkorir Kimeli 45:06
- victor Kimosop kimosop 45:08
- Erick Kiplangat Rotich 45:12
- Vincent Kimutai Towett 45:13
- Gideon Kipngetich Kipngetich 45:14
- Lampard Kingoo Mutuku 45:32