Maryam Lufti Njoki cuts the tape at the Eldohub Techrun 10K/ HANDOUT

Christine Njoki, now competing as Maryam Lufti Njoki after switching allegiance to Qatar, delivered a ruthless title defence at the Eldohub Techrun 10km on Sunday, stopping the clock in 31:00.0.

She sealed back-to-back victories ahead of Miriam Chebet (31:37.1) and Gladys Chepkurui (31:46.1), who completed the podium.
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Njoki, a familiar force on the Athletics Kenya cross country circuit, is now flying the Qatari colours and plans to feature at the Qatar National
Cross Country Championships as part of her build-up to the World Cross Country Championships in the USA next year.
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The reigning champion said her experience on the Eldoret course, sharpened by last year’s triumph, gave her the confidence to control the race
from the gun.
“Today,  I knew it was not going to be easy due to the elite lineup, but I was ready to defend my title, which I did successfully. This was a tough one considering the heavy wind,” Njoki said.
She added that her busy calendar, loaded with local cross-country races, has kept her sharp ahead of major global assignments. “I have had a good season, and my target has always been to reach the podium, and I am happy to be on the podium always. I also came to compete here as part of my preparations for the Qatar championships,” said Njoki.
In the men’s race, little-known Amos Kiprotich produced the breakthrough of his young career, claiming victory in 28:13.0 to edge out Dennis
Kipkemoi Kipkosgei (28:20.1) and Victor Kipruto (28:44.2).
“These are the most prestigious results for me, as my maiden victory and even finishing on the podium. The race was good for me despite the windy course that posed a big challenge, which I overcame,” said Kiprotich.
“Winning today was good, and something good is coming in the future, like running 10,000m. I have run so many 1,500m, 10,000m, half marathons, among other events, but I have never won. So this is memorable. I have run in many cross-country races, but it did not go well with me.
Selected results
Women
1. Maryam Lufti Njoki 31:00.0
2. Miriam Chebet 31:37.1
3. Gladys Chepkurui 31:46.1
4. Nelvin Jepkemboi 32:17.4
5. Florence Niyonkuru 32:44.4
6. Diana Chepteek Cheroben 33:20.8
7. Magdalene Jebitok 33:31.8
8. Emeline Imanzabayo33:33.7
9. Alice Chemutai Loitasia 33:54.4
10. Rebecca Arupee 34:20.5
Men
1. Amos Kiprotich 28:13.0
2. Dennis Kipkemoi Kipkosgei 28:20.1
3. Victor Kipruto 28:44.2
4. Cornelius Kipkosgei Konor 28:47.1
5. Kipchirchir Too 28:50.4
6. Meriokol Alex Pelor 28:51.7
7. Emmanuel Bor 28:56.7
8. Lawi Komen 28:59.1
9. Johana Erot 29:00.9
10. Keyborn Obato 29:03.7