Bernard Ng’eno and Delvin Meringor successfully defended their Chemususu Dam Half marathon titles held today in Eldama Ravine, Barongo County.
The reigning Istanbul Half marathon and Madoka half marathon champions kept their promise of retaining their title in one of the most competitive 21km race that entered its 6th edition.
After winning Chemususu title last year, Ng’eno went ahead to claim the inaugural Bomet Half marathon, followed by Safi half and completed the 6th position at Valencia half marathon with personal best of 59:22.
As he plans to compete at Copenhagen, said he started training in June to defend his title.
“I had to start training well to defend this title. I came here purposely to defend my title as part of my training for Copenhagen,” said Ng’eno.
It was a bite to the teeth as Meringor defended her title edging out former Boston marathon champion Sharon Cherop for the title.
The athlete who trains in kaptagat said the course was too difficult especially in the muddy section to the finish line.
“I was not sure of winning this title. I was too tired and feared that I will be beaten on the tape but luckily I managed to cross with luck,” said Meringor, the Madoka half marathon champion.
She cut the tape timing 1:15.05 ahead of Cherop in 1:15.33 before Nancy Jelagat completing the podium in 1:15.40.
Cherop said the muddy course slowed down her efforts to claim the title on home soil.
“Running at home gives me the opportunity to train well for international races. Today, I was prepared to claim this title but poor road, muddy and slippery course slowed my efforts for the title,” said the 2018 Eldoret City Marathon champion.
Leading results
Men 21km
- Bernard Ng’eno- 1:04.58
- Leonard Lagat- 1:05.15
- Samuel Kiplimo-1:05.25
- Festus Cheboi- 1:05.29
- Sila kiptoo- 1:05.48
Women
- Delvin meringor- 1:15.02
- Sharon Cherop- 1:15.33
- Nancy jelagat: 1:15.40
- Lucy Cheruiyot- 1:17.0
- Joyline Koima- 1:17.19