Dazzling Ebenyo brings the roof down in men’s 10000m as Moraa earns sweet revenge
Commonwealth Games silver medalist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo was the darling of the crowd as he cruised to the tape in 28:09.93 to win the men’s 10000m at Kasarani on Saturday.
Ebenyo shook off strong opposition in the second last round of the adrenaline-filled encounter to open a 500m gap that eventually propelled him to glory.
“Winning today is just an indication of a good season and I’m happy that I have started well. “My plan is to make sure I’m in the finals at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary because that’s the climax of the track season.
“It feels great winning at home with such a crowd cheering you,” the Africa 5000m silver medalist underscored.
Ebenyo was followed by Edwin Kipkemoi who finished second in 28:30.05.
Third place went to Stanley Njihia in 28:30.61.
Meanwhile, Commonwealth champion Mary Moraa reclaimed her women’s 800m title in style at the event. Buoyed by ecstatic home crowd, the former African U20 champion clocked 1:58.83 to win the contest. Netsanet Desta of Ethiopia (2:00.14) and Vivian Chebet (2:00.54) bagged second and third place respectively. Elated Moraa broke into dance to celebrate her sweet victory.
“It was a good race and I have seen where I will be going to rectify because it’s a competitive season that has started and I need to work hard.
“Winning at home with such a great crowd cheering me up was an amazing thing,” said Moraa.
Last season, Moraa was greatly disappointed in the race after coming second behind Prudence Sekgodiso of South Africa.
At the same time, 2018 Commonwealth Games 3000m steeplechase bronze medallist Amos Kirui edged a closely-contested race to win the men’s steeplechase during the Kip Keino Classic at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.
Kirui timed 8:08.45 in first place, ahead of Commonwealth Games champion Abraham Kibiwott (8:09.71) and Leonard Bett (8:10.02) in second and third respectively.
The 25-year-old credited his victory to the support of the home crowd, adding that he is now buoyed ahead of the national trials for the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
“It was amazing running before the home crowd and they really motivated me to win today. I’m looking forward to a better season this year,” the 2016 World Under 20 3000m steeplechase champion said.
His win was a marked improvement from his last race, which was a second-place finish in the men’s 3000m steeplechase at the 6th AK Track and Field Weekend Meeting at Nyayo Stadium, a fortnight ago.
