Ndigwa wins Wanyoike Foundation race

Henry Wanyoike Foundation ''Hope for the future run'' in Kikuyu winners of the Henry Wanyoike Foundation ''Hope for the future run'' in Kikuyu senior mens race from left Ismael Kalale number three received eight thousand shilings,Robert Ndiwa winner of the 8.5 kilometer received fifteen thousand with celebrated Former Paralympics marathon champion Henry Wanyoike and Royal Danish Ambassador to kenya Mette Knudsen and Moses Koyiaki number two in the senior nens race received a cheque of ten thousand at the 'Hope for The Future Run' 11th Edition in Kikuyu township,Kiambu County. ON 3RD JUNE 2017 PHOTO DAVID GICHURU

Over four hundred runners braved the morning chilly conditions to participate in the 11th edition of the Henry Wanyoike Foundation race that took place in Kikuyu yesterday.

Robert Ndiwa, emerged the winner in the men’s main race, beating a crowded field to take the honours in the 8km contest in 26 minutes while Pauline Wangari, a resident of Nyandarua claimed the top honours in the women category in 28:16:10 minutes followed by Pauline Muchiri in 30:21:08 minutes.

Moses Koyiaki came second in the men’s race in 26:15:15 minutes

In an interview with The Standard Sports after her conquest, Wangari said that training in high altitude in Nyandarua aided her cause. “I hail the organisers of this event because through it talent is nurtured.

 “I’m happy to have won and the fact that I do train in high altitude in Nyandarua made it easy for me because here the altitude is low. “

Wangari said that her next target is to impress at the National Championship to be held at the Nyayo National Stadium on June 18.

On his part, Ndiwa, a father of two, who has previously competed in the Venice half-marathon in Italy said: “The course was rugged, it was tough, but I’m glad I have won the race.”

Koyiaki, 28, who came second behind Ndiwa in the men’s race said: “It wasn’t very easy but the fact that i finished second after a two-year injury lay off is good enough.

“It means I’m making progress,” the towering athlete who has endured a frustrating spell due to an ankle and hamstring injuries, said. “My aim is now to do 10km to see how I progress.” [Isaac Swila]