AK names final marathon team

By Mutwiri Mutuota

In a turn around Athletics Kenya (AK) will name the national 10,000m teams for Berlin today as the federation released final marathon squads for World Championships.

Also to be disclosed are names of probable athletes at the July 25 National Trials for Berlin invitational list in short and middle distances. These are due for residential training in Eldoret ahead of the selection event. Four-time Boston Marathon champion, Robert Cheruiyot, Vienna winner, Abel Kirui, Rome titleholder, Benjamin Kiptoo, fourth finisher at London, Emmanuel Mutai and second placer at Boston, Daniel Rono make the men’s Berlin Marathon teams.

"(World champion) Luke Kibet and (three-time London winner) Martin Lel are reserves in case any of those pulling out," AK general secretary, David Okeyo said on Monday.

Olympics fifth finisher, Martha Komu, Hellena Kiprop, Julia Murage, Rispa Kimaiyo and Irene Lemika are in the women’s team. Defending world champion, Catherine Ndereba, Boston champion, Salina Kosgei and Singapore winner, Edith Masai are alternates.

The 10,000m squads for Berlin will be known today in contrast to what was earlier stated by the federation.

"We meant 10,000m teams would be reconfirmed after Trials as we name the rest of the team," Okeyo explained.

The 25-lap squads were due to be disclosed on Saturday after conclusion of men and women 10,000m finals at New KCC/AK National Championships.

Sammy Kitwara and Gideon Ngatuny clinched the automatic slots in the men’s decider with Linet Masai and Lineth Chepkurui occupying the same positions for women.