Kipngeno and Kosgei triumph in Ndakaini

Patrick Kipngeno wins the 2016 Ndakaini Half Marathon on September 10. PHOTO: COURTESY

Patrick Kipngeno and Brigit Kosgei are the new UAP Old Mutual Ndakaini Half Marathon champions.

Kipngeno won the men’s category of the race in its 13th edition after he clocked 1:05.18 at the scenic Ndakaini Dam in Muranga County yesterday.

Robert Kipkemboi who gave Kipngeno a run for his money in the hilly and sloppy terrain was left to settle for second place in 1.05.28 after he was beaten by the winner with a fine finishing kick.

Hosea Macharinyang finished third in 1.06.34

“It is my first time to take part in this contest and I can tell you it was tough, but I am happy to have carried the day,” said Kipngeno who is hopeful to upgrade his training schedule once he gets the prize money.

“I took full advantage of the elite start that was introduced in the marathon this year and cruised to victory,” he said.

Kipngeno, who was up with the leading pack in the first half of the race, before slowly starting to make his move as the course wound up the Ndakaini Dam explained he made his intention known at the 15km mark when he saw his fiercest competitors that included Kipkemboi, Macharinyang, Shadrack Kiplagat and Daniel Kiprotich starting to drift a part.

Likewise, Kosgei won the women category after clocking 1:16.09 in a hotly contested tussle that involved second placed Marion Limo (1:05.18) and Mutai Beatrice (1.20.53) who settled for third place.

This year’s edition attracted over 4,000 runners who tackled one of the toughest courses over the distance.

Speaking after the race, UAP Old Mutual Group Managing Director, General Insurance, James Wambugu said the race was a success and thanked sponsors who came on board to help the group realise its vision this year.

Wambugu said all the winners will get their prizes once doping results are received.