Edwin Bett and Diana Chepkorir reign supreme at sixth AK cross-country meeting

Edwin Bett and Diana Chepkorir are the winners of the senior category of the sixth Athletics Kenya (AK) Cross Country meet held on Saturday, January 4, at the Cardinal Otunga Mosocho grounds in Kisii County.

The event brought together over 700 athletes who competed for the ultimate glory in the final leg of the 2024/25 AK Cross Country Series.

Among the dignitaries who attended the event were AK President Jack Tuwei, legendary athlete Charles Asati, AK Senior Vice President Paul Mutwii, and AK South Nyanza Chairman Peter Angwenyi.

Bett, who had previously triumphed in Kapsokwony during the second leg of the series on October 26, was in exceptional form as he clocked a time of 29:55.8 to clinch his second victory of the series.

The 2024 World Cross Country Series runner had to battle hard to fend off a challenge from former champion Asbel Kiprop, who finished second with a time of 30:05.6.

Speaking after the victory, Bett expressed his satisfaction with his performance so far and set his sights on the upcoming 10km road race in Germany in February.

“I won in Kapsokwony and finished second in Bomet, and now I have won again. I’m satisfied with my performance so far. My next race will be in Germany in February, where I will compete in the 10km road race,” he said.

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Francis Langat finished in third place to round off a competitive field.

In the women’s senior race, world road running specialist Chepkorir added another victory to her growing list of achievements.

Diana Chepkorir

She clocked 33:05.4 to secure her second win of the series, with her first victory having come in Machakos.

Chepkorir's triumph in Kisii showcased her growing form as she prepares for the upcoming season on the track.

Reflecting on her success, Chepkorir noted, "This is a good build-up for me; this is my second victory in the series, after winning in Machakos. I’m looking forward to a good season on the track."

Janeth Jepngetich came in second place, with Gladys Kwamboka finishing third.

The men’s U20 8km race saw Emmanuel Lemiso emerge as the winner, with Emmanuel Yegon and Ronald Kipkoech securing second and third positions, respectively.

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In the women’s U20 category, Joyline Chepkemoi claimed the top spot, followed by Cynthia Chepkirui in second and Diana Chepkemoi in third.

With the AK Cross Country Series concluded, attention now shifts to the Kenya Defence Forces Cross Country Championships, scheduled to take place at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on January 8, where more top athletes will look to shine.