Obiri wins on return from maternity leave

Hellen Obiri wins the women's 5000m finals 37th edition of Kenya Defence Forces Athletics Championship at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani stadium on April 27, 2016.[PHOTO:DENNIS OKEYO]

Hellen Obiri gave birth nine months ago, but that did not show on Day One of Kenya Defence Forces Athletics Championships yesterday at Kasarani.

Obiri, who is a former World Indoor champion, won the 5000m race with ease.

The 27-year old Obiri, who was representing Laikipia Air Base, made an emphatic return with victory in 15:21.8.  Joyline Jepkogei of Marasabit finished second in 15.40.0, while Sheila Chepkirui (Thika) clocked 15.424 to finish third.

“It feels great to be back. I was testing my endurance in 5000m, but will contest for a place in 1,500m during the Olympic Games national trials. I will also compete at the Shanghai Diamond League next month as part of my preparation towards the national trials” Obiri said yesterday.

Barely less than 20 minutes after her victory, the new mum lineup again in women’s 1500m final, which is contrary to the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) competition rules and regulations.

The rules states that doubling athletes be given 45 minutes recovery period.

Former world junior silver medalist Winnie Chebet of Thika (4:14.4) won, while Judy Kyeng representing Moi Air Base (4:15.1) finished second. Obiri was third in 4:16.1.

Emmanuel Kipsang, representing Kenya Navy, relegated Stephen Arati to the second place in 10,000m.

The Mtongwe-based Kipsang took the lead with four laps to go, before winning in 28:28.1 ahead of Arita (28:442). Kiplimo Mutai of Liakipia Air Base finished third in 28.49.0.

“Unlike last year’s event, today’s competition was stiffer. I am now focusing on the next race, which is 5000m” said Kipsang.

In men’s 400m preliminaries, Alphas Kishoyian and Boniface Mweresa booked their semifinal places with easy victories in heat one and heat two.

The three-day competition resumes today with women’s 3000msteeplechase final being the top race of the day.