Philip Birech ended the ten-year-old drought to win the 12th edition of Kass marathon title as Paris 20km champion Naomi Jebet won the women’s title.
The 36-year-old runner Birech competed in all ten years but it was a great year to win the 2019 Kass marathon title in 2:21.47 in a marathon that cuts across Nandi and Uasin Gishu Counties.
“I have been waiting for this title for over ten years and it has come to pass,” said Birech from Uasin Gishu but trains in Nandi.
As part of his training ahead of Malaga marathon, Birech won the title edging out Amos Kipkemoi (2:22.32) and Evans Biwott in 2:23.05.
Making her debut in 42km, Naomi Jebet claimed women title in a slower time of 2:46.60 ahead of Nancy Arusei in second 2:47.4 and Sarah Jerop- 2:47.15.
“I have never run a marathon but today was my debut, coming out with a win. It is a plus for me. this has motivated me ahead of other races after dominating 10km and 21km races across the world,” said Jebet who trains in Kapcherop.
Selected results
42km women
- Naomi Jebet- 2:46.60
- Nancy Arusei- 2:47.4
- Sarah Jerop- 2:47.15
- Pauline Mutwa- 2:49.40
- Abigail Jepkemboi-2:52.40
- Fridah Jepkoech- 2:53.60
42km men
- Philip Birech- 2:21.47
- Amos Kipkemoi- 2:22.32
- Evans Biwott- 2:23.05
- Patrick Ketter- 2:24.26
- Felix Mutai- 2:34.40
- Daniel Kipkosgei-2:25.13