Ng'eno, Cherop shine at inaugural Bomet 21km race

2018 Valencia Half Marathon Bernard Ngeno cross the finish line to win the men's race during the inaugural Bomet half marathon on Saturday. More than 700 athletes took part during the race.Photo by Gilbert Kimutai/standard

Ng’eno, Cherop shine at Bomet half marathon

Bernard Ng’eno, the reigning Chemususu half Marathon champion, braved the energy-sapping course to win the inaugural Bomet half marathon yesterday.

Ng’eno, who also won last year’s Laikipia half Marathon, stormed into the lead at the 15-kilometre mark and controlled the race. He then blasted off with a strong kick to win his home race in 63.02 ahead of Josphat Bett from Elgeyo Marakwet who timed 63.40.

Ronald Kirui of Nakuru came third in 64.40 ahead of training mate Moses Koech who clocked 65.00.

Daniel Kiprotich of Nandi settled for fifth place in 65.15 while Kibet Kangogo of Elgeyo Marakwet (65.42) sealed the top six spots.

Ngeno said he was happy for the victory despite competing on a tough course. “ I trained hard since I expected a competitive race. I happy I have not let down my home fans.”

In women’s race, local athletes failed to shine after 2018 Kass Marathon winner Cynthia Cherop of Nandi outclassed them to win in 73.85.

Former Africa junior 3,000m bronze medalist Jackline Chepngeno (74.16) of Nakuru, Margaret Agai of Uasin Gishu County who timed 75.27. Agai’s training mate Martha Akeno (76.35) and Caroline Chepkoech of Kericho (77.17) followed.

Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso flagged off the race, which was used to raise funds to support universal healthcare, at Kaptengecha in Konoin.

Laboso said: “We are targeting to enrol more than 10,000 needy families under the National Health Insurance Fund scheme.

Laboso said the race offered athletes an opportunity for local athletes to showcase their talent. [Gilbert Kimutai]