Kenya reigns supreme at ISF World School Cross

Team Kenya exhibited class to dominate the second edition of  ISF World School Cross Country Championship on Sunday at the Ngong Race Course grounds in Nairobi.

In all the races under the three categories, Kenya took all the podium slots, except in the boy’s U-12 where Uganda Caleb Kibet won bronze.

Phanuel Kipkosgei and Diana Chepkemoi timed 14:40 and 13:38 to win in the boys and girls category respectively, in the Under -18 category.

Chepkemoi, who led from the gun to the tape in the 5.1 km race, is motivated by Sunday's show to keep soaring higher.

“I feel encouraged; let me thank God for this good performance. Gratitude to my coach also Mr. Paul Kemei, he did his best for me to claim this first position. The secret behind this success is hard work, determination and resilience. I’m aiming for 3000m steeplechase under -20 category. I hope for the best," said the Kericho-based young athlete," said Chepkemoi.

In the same category, Kelvin Kiprop and Mary Nyaboke claimed silver while Nelson Simiren and Dorcus Chepkwemoi wrapped up the podium slots.

In the under-15 category, Jane Wangare clocked 7:42 to win the 3.4km girls’ race ahead of Faith Jeptum and Claire Cheruto who claimed silver and bronze respectively.

In the boy’s category Peter Lemuryon won in 10:19, ahead of second -placed Nelson Tipapa and Dan Kibet  who came third.

Lemuryon attributed his win to a good form free of injuries underscoring that he was optimistic for a good result.

“Before the race, I was confindent. Having no injuries, I knew it was my time to shine. I’m glad this has happened, going forward I’m confident of doing even better. This is just but a start.”

In the under-12 category, Ezron Kimurgor clocked 3:49 to win the  1.2km race ahead of his compatriot Benjamin Shikuku who timed  3:52. 

Caleb Kibet claimed bronze after cutting the tape in 3:54. Sheila Chepkosgei won the girls’ category in 3:59 followed closely by Belinda Chepkorir who clocked 4:01 before Dorcas Chelangat closed the podium in 4:04.

Among the dignitaries who graced the event was President William Ruto, who congratulated the competitors noting that the championship played an important role in shaping the talent of young athletes.

“Congratulations to all our children and the participants who came today. This championship not only promotes and nurtures talent but also promotes our relationship and appreciation of diversity. 

"Kenya is the place to be. We are honoured to be hosting this event. We look forward for more. The whole world has converged here to celebrate our talents," averred Ruto.

The event brought over 400 students from over 20 countries.

1. Sheila Jepkosgei Tarus  3:59 sec

2. Belinda Chepkorir 4:01 sec

3. Dorcas Chelangat  4:04 sec

1. Ezron Kimurgor 3:49 sec

2. Benjamin Shikuku3:52 sec

3.Kibet Caleb 3:54sec(Uganda)

1. Jane Wangare 7:42

2. Faith Jeptum 7:43

3. Claire Cheruto 7:44

1. Peter Lumuryon 10:19

2. Benson Tipap10:25

3. Dan  Kibet 10:35

1. Diana Chepkemoi 13:48

2. Mary Nyaboke 13:52 

3. Dorcus Chepkwemoi  13:54

1. Phanuel Kipkosgei 14:40 

2. Kevin kiprop 14:44

3. Nelson Simiren14:5