Athletics: Njeru and Kiprop top Safaricom Imenti race

London marathon pacemaker Pauline Njeru’s three-year dominance at the Safaricom Imenti South 15km champion came to an abrupt end as she surrendered the race title at Nkubu in Meru yesterday.

The Embu-based Njeru finished second in 58:01.06, losing to her training partner and Nanjing marathon 21km champion Miriam Nakter.

It was a similar script in the men’s as Isaac Kipkoech, the defending champion, finished fifth. Newcomer Stephen Kiprop won the race.

Nakter, who was on her third attempt, chalked up victory in 57:47.04 ahead of Njeru and third-placed Margaret Wangari of police (58:11.02) –to take home Sh100’000 winner’s prize. 

Nakter shook off strong opposition that included 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games 10,000m champion Lucy Kabuu of police, who timed 58:28.03 for fifth spot. 

Mary Munanu, the 2011 Africa cross country junior bronze medalist, returned eighth in 59:28.03 as the Mombasa International Marathon champion Shelmith Muriuki sealed the top ten places in 60.02. 

Njeru said fatigue contributed to her loss, having participated in a road race in Poland two weeks ago. She however vowed to reclaim the crown next year.In the men’s front, Kiprop from Elgeyo Marakwet won in 48:12.07 as Kipkoech clocked 49:53.06 to loss title. 

Emmanuel Bor, the Rock ‘N’ Roll marathon pacer, settled for second spot in 48:58.09 while Alexander Mutiso checked in third in 48:16.02. 

Daniel Kiogora, the Meru County sports chief executive, flagged off the senior races at Igoji (Kanyuuruko) and finished at Nkubu Stadium while junior and fun races were held at the stadium. The race featured six categories including 15km senior race men and women. [Standard Sports]