No surprise as seasoned runners dominate University of Eldoret cross-country championships

Reigning Discovery Kenya cross country champion Immaculate Anyango and Bravin Kiprop won the mens and women categories respectively as the University of Eldoret Cross Country Championships concluded at the institution’s pavilion at the weekend.

Anyango, who is based at the Iten high altitude region, clocked 25.09.7 to win the title while Jepkosgei was second clocking 25.26.6 as Dorothy Kimutai came third at 25.30.5.

And with the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, beckoning, fingers will be crossed as to whether Anyango shall take part although the decision squarely lies on her coach.

In an interview with People sport, the introverted athlete said she is desirous to be part of the fray although the finer details will come from her coach.

 “Taking part in such races requires advice from experts in this case my trainer and if he says Yes, why not?, posed Anyango adding, It may open doors for you to feature in many other high profile events,” 

 Meanwhile Kiprop beat a determined and fast men’s field to emerge victorious in a time of 16:40.03 ahead of Ayub Kiptum (16:54.2) and Nixon Chesi who clocked 16:59.4.

Kiprop said that the victory gave him strength and courage ahead of featuring in major races

 “I am very happy to have been the best. It was not an easy race especially but I must say victory left me on cloud nine,” said Kiprop.

In the junior race, Mathew Kipkosgei and Janet Jepkoech proved a cut above the rest in the men and women races categories respectively.

  Kipkosgei, who is attached to St. Francis Kamuron, was in his true element in the 5.55 kilometer race which he won in 16. 40.01 seconds followed by Linus Kipkemoi (16.54.2) and Tuitus Kipkoech (16.59.0).

In the womens’ race, Jepkoech won in a time of 12:38.01 ahead of Maurine Jepkosgei and Martha Jelimo who clocked 12.41.0 and 12:45.2 respectively.