Marathon: Tungus, Chepkut win in Kisumu

Newcomers Bernard Tangus and Hellen Chepkut yesterday produced superlative showing to top the 13th World Aids Marathon in Kisumu.

Tungus, who comes from Kericho and on-the-comeback trail from injury, timed 2:20.24 under the sweltering heat in the lakeside city.

The 27-year-old Tungus said: “I am happy for the win. This is despite the heat here. I now look forward to compete in other big races.

He finished third at the Kilimanjaro Marathon and dropped out during last week’s Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon after his injury got worse mid-way.

Gideon Kipsang returned second in 2:23:54 with Bernard Nyakamba third in 2:24:45.

Johnston Asige and Daniel Nyandigisi returned fourth and fifth in 2:27:59 and 2:30:51 respectively.

A similar script hovered in the women’s contest as winner Chepkut dominated  after three years out of action.

She said: “The journey has not been easy for me but I’m now back and will participate in other races next year.”

Dennis Kiyaka of Nyamira County topped men’s 10km in  31:47:70 ahead of Donald Omondi (32:17.64) of Kisumu while Stephens Imbaya finished third in 39:44.65 as Zacharia Obayo (42:05:81) trailed. [Philip Orwa]