This archive report was first published on 23 November 2019.
Ngelel, Njau Shine at Machakos AK Cross Country ¶
On a muddy course at the Machakos Peoples Park, Frankline Ngelel of the Kenya Defence Forces and Mary Njau from Nyahururu emerged victorious in the men and women senior races at the first leg of the Athletics Kenya Cross Country series on Saturday, November 23, 2019.
The athletes faced a challenging course due to heavy downpour experienced in the morning, but Ngelel and Njau were able to overcome the obstacles and claim the top spots.
Ngelel, who trains in Iten, said he was ready for the victory despite the muddy conditions. "The course was muddy but for me I was ready for everything because I am currently preparing for the East Africa Cross Country Championships. I was waiting for the right time to make a move and when I saw them (Tanki and Bett) slowing down in the last lap, then I decided to go for the win," he said.
Njau, who trains with Bedan Karoki, the 2016 World Half Marathon silver medalist, said she is using the meets as she prepares for the upcoming season. "It was really tough because the course was muddy and slippery but I thank God for the win. I am now looking forward to the Ol Kalou meet before the national championships," she said.
Josephat Too from Silibwet Athletics Camp outsprinted home boy John Kavesa to win the 8km junior men race in 24:24.6, while Edinah Chepkemoi took top honours in the 6km junior women’s race in 21:07.3.
The Athletics Kenya Cross Country series will continue with the second leg slated for Sotik, Bomet County on December 14, followed by the third leg in Ol Kalou on December 21, and the fourth leg in Kapsokwony on December 28. The final leg will be held in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County on January 4.
