Kipkemoi opens up on tactics of winning Mozzart Bet Chemususu Dam Half Marathon
Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 16.11.24. | 16:52
The 27-year old was participating in his fourth ever half marathon race and his second in the country
Wisley Kipkemoi needed 63:82 to clinch top honours in the ninth edition of the Mozzart Bet Chemususu Dam Half Marathon race held on Saturday.
Making his maiden appearance in the event, Kipkemoi had to brave the chilly weather on the hilly course to win his second-ever half-marathon race.
In what was his fourth half marathon race since making entry into road running, the Keringet-based athlete pulled clear at Metipso hill and maintained the rhythm all the way to the busy finish area.
Kipkemoi won his first half marathon in February when he took top honours in Verona in Italy after clocking 61:15. Victory in Chemususu saw him bag his first win on Kenyan soil.
The 27-year-old said sticking to his tactics bore fruits on the wet and hilly course and distributing his energy well won him the title.
"It wasn't easy as the weather was very harsh. The course was hard but I stuck to my tactics to the finish lane.
I never changed tactics even when those in the leading pack increased pace in a bid to drop a few. I am satisfied with the time given the course," he said.
The win not only saw Kipkemoi win his second half marathon but also served as a consolation to a missed title in September.
The athlete, who draws inspiration from two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge finished second in the Tenwek Half Marathon behind Abraham Kiptum.
"It feels good to win my first race in Kenya. I lost the title in Tenwek but I am happy I won today. I am happy with my progression as I finished fourth in my debut race in China and medaled in the subsequent three.
My focus remains on winning more half marathons and 10k races before shifting to full marathon in future," he added.
Kipkemoi clocked 62:82 with the Nakuru-based Emmanuel Bett finishing second in 63:86.
James Kipkirui, who enjoyed massive backing from the tens of fans who lined up on the course, was third after a timing 63:89. Kipkirui trains in Metipso area.
