Olympic champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi from central Rift cruised to victory in the 1500m as the 3rd AK/Betika track and field weekend meet concluded today at the Eliud Kipchoge Sports Complex in Kapsabet, Nandi County.
Wanyonyi, who was making his 1st official attempt in the 1500m, crossed the finish line in 3 minutes 38.1 seconds, six seconds ahead of Josphat Sang, also from central Rift, while Justice Byegon of South Rift completed the podium positions in 3 minutes 46.4 seconds.
Stephen Kipchumba of North Rift used 1 minute 48.2 seconds to win 800 m, followed by KDF’s Nicodemus Kirui in 1 minute 49.5 seconds, while former Olympic silver medalist Ferguson Rotich, who was returning for the 1st time after nursing an injury, finished 3rd in 1 minute and 50 seconds.
Cornelius Kipkosgei from Central Rift was the fastest in 3,000 msc, posting 8 minutes 52.7 seconds ahead of Hussein Kimtai of Western and Victor Ngeno from Central Rift, who finished 2nd and 3rd in 8:57.9 and 8:58.5 minutes, respectively.
Olympian Nelly Jepchirchir of Central Rift eased to victory in 800m in 2 minutes 2.5 seconds, followed by Vanice Kerubo of Police, a distance 2nd in 2:6.6 minutes, while her teammate Naumglorious Chepchumba completed the podium places in 2 minutes 6.8 seconds.
World under-20 bronze medallist Diana Chepkemoi claimed victory in 3,000 msc in a time of 10 minutes 8.4 seconds ahead of Winnie Chepteek and Caroline Biwott, who finished 2nd and 3rd, respectively.
North Rift also dominated the 5000m final with Maurine Chebor emerging victorious in 15 minutes 40.1 seconds, followed by Cynthia Chepkurui and Janet Chepkemoi, who finished in 2nd and 3rd positions with 15:47.8 and 15:55 minutes, respectively.
Action now shifts to Nakuru County for the 4th meet slated for between the 3rd and 5th of next month.
