Athletics: Bett, Rotich spice up Kenya’s relays trials

IAAF World Junior Champion Kipyegon Bett and Ferguson Rotich spiced up Kenya’s national relays trials at Moi International Sports Stadium, Kasarani yesterday.

Athletics Kenya used the low-key event to select team to take part in the IAAF World Relays from April 22-23 in Nassau, Bahamas after a no-show from the invited teams from South Africa and Botswana.

The squad will be led by Ferguson Rotich and fast rising Kipyegon Bett in the men’s 4x800m relay. Also in the team are Alfred Kipketer, Cornelius Tuwei and Timothy Kitum.

Rotich will be making his third stab at the relay event, having anchored Kenya to gold position at the inaugural event in 2014 alongside Sammy Kibet, Job Kinyor and Alfred Kipketer.

With the exception of Josephine Chelangat in women’s 4x800m, the other four members— Egalay Nalianya, Emily Cherotich, Mary Kuria and Silvia Chesebe—have all been part of Team Kenya in major events.

In men’s 4x200m, Ferdinand Omanyala thrilled with a double victory in 100m and 200m respectively to make his debut to the national team. Also in the squad is the Mike Mokamba, Mark Otieno, Collins Omae and Peter Mwai.

The women’s 4x400m quintent has Jacinta Shikanda, Veronica Mutua, Grace Kidake, Catherine Nandi and Everline Makena. Africa Championship 400m silver medallist Bobiface Mweresa, Alphas Kishoyian, Geoffrey Kiprotich, Daisy Komen and Betty Chelagat will spur Kenya in newly-introduced mixed relay race. [Dennis Okeyo]