Former 1,500m national bronze medalist Samuel Naibei and marathoner Caroline Jepchirchir ruled the roost at the inaugural Iten International Marathon held on Sunday in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet county.
Transitioning from track to marathon, Naibei from Mount Elgon won the men’s race edging out experienced marathoners like Albert Kangogo among others to pocket a million shillings.
Naibei said that he used the race as part of his preparations for Lisbon Half marathon set for next year April in Rome, Italy.
“I have had good time in the race here and I used this race as part of preparations for Lisbon. I have best time 61:00 set at the Nakuru City marathon, after competing in 21km,” said Naibei.
He held on to the lead to cut the tape in 2:08.43 ahead of Joshua Kogo who came second in 2:2;10.35 and Kangogo completed the podium positions in 2:11.46.
In women race, Jepchirchir, who finished 4th at the Porto marathon last year won the race on the road that she is used on training daily.
She said that at the start she felt cold due to the high altitude but at the finish line, she managed to enjoy due to the hot weather.
“Winning at home makes me feel good. Even though it was not that easy running in two different weather conditions. I had a good speed that is why I managed to beat my competitor with a big margin,” said Jepchirchir.
She timed 2:08.33 for the title relegating Suzy Chemaimak who was second in 2:33.49 with Mercy Kipkemoi completing the podium in 2:35.39.
Selected results
Men
1. Samuel Naibei- 2:08.43
2. Joshua Kogo- 2:10.35
3. Albert kangogo- 2:11.46
4. Kennedy Kemboi- 2:12.21
5. William Cheboi- 2:13.20
6. Benson Tunyo- 2:14.02
7. Collins Kipkorir- 2:14.46
8. Stephen Kipkosgei- 2:14.56
9. Isaac Lagat- 2:15.10
10. Silas Too- 2:15.11
Women
1. Caroline Jepchirchir-2:28.33
2. Suzy Chemaimak-2:33.49
3. Mercy Kipkemoi-2:35.09
4. Martha Akeno- 2:35.30
5. Joan Kipyatich-2:36.26
6. Hilda Cheboi-2:36.46
7. Janet Kiptoo- 2:37.43
8. Rael kimaiyo-2:38.28
9. Hellen Jepkurgat-2:38.29
10. Faith Jepkoech-2:38.40