Caren Chebet and Victor Kimosop were crowned the champions of the last series of Betika/Athletics Kenya Cross Country meeting yesterday at the Kericho Teachers Training College.
As the last leg ahead of the National Cross Country cum national trials ahead of World Cross Country championships, the event lived up to its billing, drawing electrifying performances as hundreds of athletes, fans, and community members turned out for the race.
In a fiercely contest, The Kenya Prisons Chebet delivered a dominant performance, crossing the finish line in 33:27:63, ahead of Abigael Chepkoech who clocked 33:54:73, and Diana Chepkemoi, who wrapped up in 34:13:85 in the senior women’s 10km race.
Coming from Central Rift, Kimosop light up the Kericho course with a thrilling senior men 10km victory in a time of 29:39:85, edging out Charles Kakuri (29:41:95) and Mathew Kipruto (29:47:88) in a breathtaking sprint finish that had spectators on their feet.
The Masters (50+ years) category proved that passion for running knows no age, as 52-year-old Kenneth Mungara stormed through the 2km course in 6:22:24, while 50-year-old Alice Chelangat showcased remarkable endurance, finishing in 7:17:28.
“Today’s race was pure energy. From the young first-timers to the seasoned masters, everyone gave it their all. This is exactly why we invest in community sports. Kenya’s next generation of champions is being molded right here on home soil,” said Eric Mwiti, Betika Group Head of Brand.
Athletics Kenya officials praised the Kericho leg for its strong turnout and competitive depth, emphasizing that such regional events are crucial in discovering and nurturing fresh talent for both local and international competition.
The Betika Cross Country 2025 now heads to its next leg later this season, as the momentum builds toward the grand finale under the BingwaFest Season Two circuit.