Ferguson Rotich, Zablon Ekwam dazzle in third leg of AK Relay Series

Ferguson Rotich wins the men's 800m during the Kip Keino Classic meet at Nyayo Stadium in October 2020. [Stafford Ondego]

World 800m silver medallist Ferguson Rotich dominated his speciality at the third leg of Athletics Kenya relays series at Nyayo Stadium on Saturday.

Rotich won the one lap event in 1:45.64 ahead of Commonwealth Games champion Wycliffe Kinyamal who crossed the line in 1:46.09 while Abel Kipsang closed the podium places in 1:46.36.

“This is the results I wanted, it’s encouraging to run a fast time of the season. This is good build up ahead of the relays trials and as well as my Olympic preparations. The last meeting here at Nyayo I participated in the 400m and I was impressed with my speed work, I’m anticipating a good season,” Rotich said.

On his part Kinyamal was satisfied with his results saying: “The season is early, the races are giving us good chance to gauge our preparedness ahead of the Olympics Games.” 

In the corresponding women’s 800m race, Intercontinental 1,500m champion Winny Chebet saw off world Under-18 400 silver medalist Marry Moraa to win the two lap race in 2:03.73. Moraa returned 2:04.32 for second place ahead of Mueni Karimi (2:08.16). 

KDF's Amos Chepkwony during 3rd AK relay series at Nyayo national stadium. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Peninah Wangari reigned supreme in second heat in 2:09.54 ahead of Christine Ndanu who clocked 2:11.31 with Vivian Chelangat finishing third in 2:15.11. 

Zablon Ekwam continued with his impressive display in the men’s 400m running the fastest time 45:95 seconds in Kenyan soil this season to beat Kevin Tanui who clocked 46.80 seconds. Stanley Kieti was third in 47:33.

Moraa was at the top of her game in 400m race flooring her opponents in 52:63 with Gladys Musyoki timing 54.65 in second slot. Beatrice Machoka closed the podium places in 57:36. 

KDF's Pricilla Tabanda (left) and Brigid Jelagat during the 3rd AK relay series at Nyayo National Stadium. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]