By Oscar Pilipili

A visitor to Kapenguria would be forgiven for developing cold feet over reports the presence of over 2,000 warriors was about to be felt in the mountainous town.

The fear would have been compounded by the presence of heavily armed military personnel, mainly from the Administration Police, who appeared ready to stop (sic) the warriors’ trek.

But the warriors were here to denounce cattle rustling and join the rest of the world, including US and Russia Ambassadors, in promoting peace that has been a major challenge.

The tool of peace was the annual Tegla Loroupe Peace Run, now seven years old. The purpose of the event is to promote peace among the Pokot and their neighbours from Uganda and Southern Sudan.

The meeting featured six categories — men and women warriors, elite men and women, boys and girls.

And when Kenneth Kimtai, 19, crossed the finish line first to win elite men’s 10km race he was excited his dream to be part of peacemakers has been accomplished.

"My win was a surprise since I had not prepared for the race. But all the same I’m happy to have participated in a peace promoting event," said the runner from Mount Elgon.

Elias Kemboi from Marakwet was second and followed by David Plimo from Central Pokot.

Chemtai Rionotukei, 23, won the elite women’s race followed by Ruth Chemsto and Roseline David.

"Tegla Loroupe Peace Run has helped to expose talent from this region that would have gone to waste," Rionotukei said.

Rionotukei proposed the venue be moved closer to the border to increase the number of runners from Uganda and Southern Sudan.