Globe-trotting stars join electric crowds in StanChart race

Eunice Jeptoo way to win 42km women race during the Standard Chatered Nairo Marathon.She won in a time of 2:42:02.PHOTO/DENNIS OKEYO.

The atmosphere was electrifying. From all walks of life, they came in their thousands to watch the red-hot action that send the stadium into delirium as the sonorous cheers livened the air.

Excited fans from around the country, most of them clad in blue T Shirt, were lined up in the streets along the marathon route to cheer up the 17,000 plus runners.

And tension went high when Kenya's marathon stars locked in a clinical battle with a crowded field of upcoming athletes.

The National Police Service officers, who were stationed in various parts of the city, remained vigil on the ground and on air in the event that attracted participation from 55 countries.

"I like the race organization but the course is difficult. I enjoyed the privilege of competing against Kenyans here," said Antony Palmal of England, who raced in 10km.

The National Youth Service (NYS), who did the frisking in entry points to the Nyayo National Stadium and kept security checks at the finish line, gave the media a butt of jokes.

Some uniformed NYS officers were clad in G4S vests while others did not, which raised questions on whether the vests were in order for the disciplined force.

"We were instructed to put on the G4S vests with our uniforms. Most of us who understand the regulations for uniforms declined that's why you see a few of them with the uniform here," said NYS officer, who declined to be named for fear of reprisals.

The event saw huge attendance of Kenya's world beating athletes that included 2012/2013 World Marathon Major Series jackpot winner Prisca Jeptoo and Commonwealth Games marathon silver medalist Stephen Chemlany, who holds a master's degree in Computer Science from the Iona University in New Rochelle, New York.

Prisca Jeptoo, who will compete in New York Marathon next Sunday, finished second in 10km, where there was confusion in the timings.

A visa delay denied Jeptoo a chance to race at the 25th edition Bupa Great South 10 mile Run in Portsmouth, England, yesterday.
Jeptoo, the Olympic marathon silver medalist, was the biggest name in the women's field.
But Peter Kosgei and Eunice Jeptoo were a cut above their opponents; oozing pure class and thrilling several dignitaries that included Nairobi Governor Dr Evans Kidero, Standard Chartered Bank senior officials, Athletics Kenya President Isaiah Kiplagat among others.