Kimeli, Anyango reign supreme in Athletics Kenya fifth meet in Iten

Nicholas Kimeli and Immaculate Anyango won the senior men's and women's fifth Athletics Kenya (AK) meet in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County, on Saturday, November 25, 2023.

Kimeli emerged as the winner after running in 30:05:0, beating Weldon Lagat, who was second in 30:13:6, and Asbel Kiprop Junior, who came in third in 30:17:9.

"I was using this race as training for the 2024 Cross Country Championships. I hope to be among the team representing Kenya. I'm still discussing with my coach, and then I'll know the way forward," Kimeli said, as quoted by a local media outlet.

Kimeli just conquered the race after another strong show in the men’s 5km race at the World Athletics Road Running Championships in Riga, Latvia, in October.

Erot outclasses rivals

Meanwhile, John Erot won the junior men's category after clocking 24:25:8 to beat Gideon Kipngetich, who came in second in 24:53:3, while Matthew Kosgey earned a podium finish after running in 25:02:9.

"I thank God because the race was tough, but I managed the top position. I asked the guys to keep going, but they were slow, so I ran fast because of the time. It was very muddy, but cross country is always tough, so I am used to it," Erot said.

Anyango reigned supreme in the women's senior race with a timing of 33:22:5, Betty Jepkemoi was second in 34:19:0, and Deborah Samum finished third after clocking 35:08:2.

"I have not faced any challenges because I am used to this altitude. If Agnes were here, the race would even be more competitive. We have been running with her since we were in school, and we know each other pretty well," Anyango said.

Iten Athletics Kenya meet results

Senior Men

1. Nicholas Kimeli - 30:05:0
2. Weldon Lagat - 30:13:6
3. Asbel Kiprop (Junior) - 30:17:9
4. Robert Kiprop - 30:30:5
5. Raphael Dabash - 30:51:0

Junior Men 8km

1. Johanna Erot - 24:25:8
2. Gideon Kipngetich - 24:53:3
3. Matthew Kosgey - 25:02:9
4. Anthony Kibiwott - 25:24:1
5. Cornelius Kiptoo - 25:40:2

Senior Women

1. Immaculate Anyango - 33:22:5
2. Betty Jepkemoi - 34:19:0
3. Deborah Samum - 35:08:2
4. Caren Chebet - 35:20:9
5. Edina Kibiwott - 35:25:3

Junior Women 6km

1. Diana Chepkemoi - 20:38:5
2. Maureen Chepkoech - 20:52:2
3. Nancy Cherop - 21:01:5
4. Clare Cheruto - 21:06:5
5. Marion Jepngetich - 21:12:2