Youngsters turn up for inaugural Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run

The inaugural edition of the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run that happened at the Chepsaita Secondary School on Saturday December 2 served its purpose of identifying young talents in the region.

The senior races were curtain-raised by junior races in 500m, 1km, and 2km for both boys and girls.

The 2km race was competed by young runners aged 11-13 years old, with the 1km race being contested by athletes between 8-10 years. The 500m category was graced by young ones between 5-7 years.

The majority of young runners finished the tough course, with some fainting at the finish line. The first aiders were the busiest as other determined young souls limped to the mark. Most of the athletes competed without shoes.

Nim Kiprono won the 2km boys’ category in 5:49.4, while Claire Jepng'etich triumphed in the women's 2km race after running in 6:04.4.

Victor Kipkogei outclassed a strong 1km field to emerge victorious in 4:04.02 while Melvin Cheruto carried the day in the women's 1km category by running in 4:29.1.

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Speaking after the win, the youngsters all pointed out that they aimed to represent the country at the international level, just like former world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge and 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon.

"I feel so good. I was not expecting to win, but I am grateful that I have won. When I grow up, I want to be like Eliud Kipchoge," Kipkogei said while looking behind to catch a glimpse of Kipchoge who was seated in the VIP tent.

"I am very happy. I have been training for this race, but I didn't expect a win. When I grow up, I would like to represent the country like Faith Kipyegon," the visibly breathless Cheruto offered.

In the 500m category, Fransisca Jeptoo and Alex Kimtai went home smiling after emerging winners in 3:05:4 and 2:45:8.

Athletics Kenya (AK) president Jack Tuwei was glad that junior athletes had registered for the competitive event, insisting on its importance in nurturing talents in the region.

"We wouldn't want these kids to run for a long distance. There is a law present to ensure they run the right races and right distance. I am a very happy man," the World Athletics Vice Chairman pointed out.

All podium finishers winners gladly went home smiling with cash and kind prizes handed to them by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who also participated in the fun race.

500m Boys

Alex Kimtai - 2:45.8

Desmond Kipchumba - 2:56.11

Abel Kipruto - 2:57.9

 500m Girls

Fransisca Jeptoo - 3:05.4

Melvin Chepleting - 3:06.0

Itypachi Cherotich - 3:06.3

1km Boys

Victor Kipkogei - 4:04.02

Moses Kiptanui - 4:12.0

Weldon Kimtai - 4:25.1

1km Girls

Melvin Cheruto - 4:29.1

Cynthia Jerotich - 4:31.8

Naomi Jepkorir - 4:36.6

2km Boys

Nim Kiprono - 5:49.4

Crisphine Korir - 5:50.0

Collins Kipchumba - 5:53.7

2km Girls

Claire Jepng'etich - 6:04.4

Flavor Jepkirui - 6:10.0

Miriam Jeruto - 6:20.8