World Champion Philemon Kiriago in action during the race/WMRA

Philemon Kiriago has shifted his focus to the 2026 Golden Trail World Series after claiming a dominant victory at the Transvulcania Half Marathon in Spain.

The defending champion produced a commanding display to win the 25km race in a course-record time of 2:07:43 during the sixth leg of the 2026 WMRA Mountain Running World Cup series.
France’s Anthony Felber finished second in 2:07:47, while Kenya’s Richard Atuya sealed third place in 2:08:15.
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The victory marked Kiriago’s first win of the Mountain Running World Cup season and strengthened his confidence ahead of the Golden Trail World Series opener, the Zegama-Aizkorri race in Spain on May 17.
“I’m happy with my performance because this is my first win in the 2026 Mountain Running World Cup,” said Kiriago.
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“My focus now is to defend my title and chase the Golden Trail Series title.”
The reigning World Mountain and Trail Running Up and Down champion, however, acknowledged the growing competition in this year’s circuit, noting that the battle for honours is becoming increasingly tough.
Kiriago’s victory capped a strong week in Spain after he finished second in Thursday’s Transvulcania Vertical 7.4km uphill race behind fellow Kenyan Atuya.
In the women’s category, Ruth Gitonga stunned multiple series winner Joyce Njeru to claim victory.
Gitonga crossed the finish line in 2:22:50 while Njeru settled for second place in 2:25:39.
The win marked Gitonga’s second victory of the season after previously winning the São Brás Cross Classic Up and Down race in Portugal.
Despite the defeat, Njeru remains firmly in contention for the overall series title after recording two wins and two second-place finishes in four races this season.
Peter Angwenyi praised the continued dominance of Kenyan athletes and backed them to maintain their strong form in the upcoming Golden Trail Series.
“So far, I’m impressed with the performance of Kenyans. As the Golden Trail Series starts next week, I tip Kenyans to continue with their dominance,” said Angwenyi.