Ruth Chepng'etich falters as Loice Chemining claims AK Prisons Cross Country Championships

Paris 10km Road Race runner-up Loice Chemining and seasoned athlete Shadrack Ngumbao emerged champions at the Athletics Kenya (AK) Prisons Cross Country Championships, held on Saturday, January 18, in Ruiru.

The race was graced by Athletics Kenya Vice President Paul Mutwii.

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Chemining, who finished second in last year’s edition, crossed the finish line in 33:09, improving significantly from her previous time of 35:44:50.

Brillian Chepkorir came in second at 33:27, while Lilian Odira completed the podium at 33:44.

Despite high expectations, world marathon record holder Ruth Chepng'etich missed out on a podium finish, placing fourth in 33:51.

Speaking to Mozzart Sport after the race, Chemining was glad that her efforts finally paid off.

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“I thank God. I was not expecting this today, but I am grateful that I won. I have been working out well, and I was very prepared for the race. I gave my best,” a breathless Chemining said.

This was her first medal in the Prisons Cross Country since 2019 when she made a remarkable debut on the course.

“In 2019, I was a debutant in this course and I won. After that, I went on maternity leave, and I am glad to bounce back strongly,” she offered.

With the victory now behind her, Chemining revealed that she will compete in the Osaka Marathon on Monday 24 February 2025. She will also compete in the National Cross-Country Championships slated for February in Eldoret.

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In the men’s race, Ngumbao finally clinched the title in his seventh attempt, crossing the line in 30:11.5. Boaz Kipkurgut and Silas Chepkwony followed closely in 30:43.5 and 30:48, respectively.

“This is my seventh time competing in this competition, and I finally won. I am grateful to God.

I have been building up for this competition through cross-country and mountain runs, and I also trained my mind to endure. I train in Ngong, which has greatly contributed to my fitness,” he said.

Women’s Results

Loice Chemining – 33:09

Brillian Chepkorir – 33:27

Lilian Odira – 33:44Ruth Chepng’etich – 33:51

Carren Chebet – 34:24

Men’s Results

Shadrack Ngumbao – 30:11.5

Boaz Kiapkurgut – 30:43.5

Silas Chepkwony – 30:48

Fredrick Musyoki – 30:57.9

Hillary Simatwa – 31:05.1