Kiprono dominates Kisumu showdown as Chebet springs surprise at Brookside Games.

Emmanuel Kiprono in action during the men's 8km junior men's race in Kisumu/ANGWENYI GICHANA

 World U20 cross country silver medalist Emmanuel Kiprono delivered a commanding performance to clinch the 8km title at the Brookside National Secondary Schools Term One Games in Kisumu.

Kiprono led from gun to tape in the race held at Kisumu Senior School Grounds, clocking an impressive 18:27.2. The Form Three student from Kimuron High School finished well ahead of Wesley Kiplangat, who posted 18:40.3, while Emmanuel Kipchichir completed the podium in 18:45.6.

“It was a good race, but not as competitive as I expected,” noted Kiprono, adding, “The weather was different from where I train, which is high altitude. The low altitude was good for the race.”

Kiprono has now shifted focus to the World Under-20 Athletics Championships, set for August at Hayward Field. “I have turned my focus to the World Under-20 Championships in the US, where I’m targeting a gold medal in the 5,000m race,” said the lanky youngster.

Second-placed Kiplangat, who has already secured qualification for the Summer Youth Olympics, expressed satisfaction with his performance. “I’m happy for Kiprono because he is my training mate. This inspires me to work harder in training,” he remarked.

Brian Kiptoo (18:50.7), Bravin Kiprop (19:00.8), and Joel Sang (19:14.2) finished fourth, fifth, and sixth, respectively, with the top six earning tickets to the FEASSA Games in Tanzania.

In the women’s 6km race, Venenza Chebet emerged as the surprise winner after clocking 15:22.4. The Kongit Secondary School athlete edged out Naomi Chepkwemoi, who finished second in 15:29.7, while Celestine Mantaine settled for third in 15:32.8.

“I was targeting a podium finish, and I’m happy I emerged as the winner. Being my first major title of the year, I’m now focusing on the World U20 Championships. I will work harder to ensure that I make the team,” said Chebet.

Her first international outing came at the International Schools Federation Cross Country Championships in 2024, where she placed 12th. Pre-race favourite Faith Jeptumo from Sinonin finished fourth in 15:37.7. Claire Cheruto (15:38.0) and Millicent Chepkonga (15:38.7) rounded off the top six.