Onchari clinches Nyamira 10km road race

Athlete in action during the second edition of the Nyamira Great Run series [photo courtesy]

Enock Onchari clinched the 10km race during the second edition of the Nyamira Great Run series on Sunday.

Onchari clocked 29:50.63 for victory.

The race started at Metamaywa on the Kisii-Sotik road and finished at Nyakongo High School. Onchari dominated the race after overcoming stiff challenge from Stephen Arita (29:57.31) who finished second. Kibon Ogato was third in 30:14.56 and Felix Boera fourth in 30:15.38.

Onchari, an experienced road racer attributed his win to his tactics.

 "It was a good race for me today. I'm using the race to prepare for the Nyamira Great Run 21km," said the Iten based athlete.

He added: "The course was not bad and the weather favourable."

Pre-race favourite Sammy Nyokaye finished sixth after crossing the finishing line in 30:37.38 while Dancun Nyangara in 30:43.69.

In the women race, Faith Chepkoech emerged winner beating Beatrice Begi to second place. Chepkoech clocked 34:50.67 and Begi 35:25.08.

"It was a very tough race but I want to thank God for helping me to win," said Chepkoech.

Begi who won the senior women's race during last weekend's Ensoko Cross Country said: "I felt stomach discomfort after five kilometers. However, I'm happy with the second place finish. My focus is the next event."

Nancy Kerage was third 36:38.62 with Christine Oigo coming home fourth in 37:53.95.

Doris Omari finished sixth 40:57.21 and Tecla Nyabuto sixth in 42:25.81.

Lilian Kebati won the 5kms junior women cross country title in 22:05.00 and was followed in second place by Nelly Mandere who clocked 23:29.57.

Jackson Moindi won the men's 5kms race in 16:00.18 with Brian Michieka (16.34.00) finishing second and Elias Ogeto (17:54.50) third.

The five part series which will culminate on October 31 with the Nyamira Great Run 21kms which will start at Chepilat and finish at Ikonge primary school.