World Cross Country champion, Agnes Jebet Ng’etich uncorked a front-running masterclass to successfully retain her women’s 10K on Saturday at Sirikwa Classic title at Lobo Village, Eldoret.
Just four weeks after scaling the middle step of the podium in Florida, United States, Ng’etich gave thousands of her cheering fans a Valentine treat as she dismantled the opposition, detaching from the deep field after just two laps to motor home unchallenged in 32:28.
Mercy Chepkemoi won the silver medal in 32:42 with Catherine Reline rounding off the podium in 33:51. Uganda’s Cheptoyek settled for fourth position in 34:07.
“ This was just like the last edition. The weather was the same, and I loved the atmosphere from the ecstatic fans. Everyone was cheering me on, and it gave me motivation to continue pushing on. Actually, I never felt lonely because the fans were in every corner,” she said.
She added, “At the moment, I don’t have any plans. I will talk with my manager to know the way forward.”
On her part, Chepkemoi, who trains at Tiloa Camp, was full of praise for Ng’etich. “ Ng’etich has been phenomenal. She is my mentor, and I want her to continue motivating me.”
Marathoner John Korir was the surprise winner in the men’s 10km race after crossing the finishing line in 29:44 ahead of Amos Kiprotich and Silas Senchura, who both timed 29:46. Pre-race favourite Daniel Ebenyo was relegated to the fifth place, clocking 29:57.
The Valencia Marathon champion said he was not expecting to win the race.
“I feel good and happy to have won the race. I came here to gauge my shape is and I was happy every went well. This is part of my preparations for this year’s Boston Marathon,” said Korir.
He added: “It was my first cross country and I am happy with the win”
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