Chepkurui off to San Juan as troops gather

Chepkurui, was at AK secretariat on Tuesday to seek permission from David Okeyo, the AK secretary general.

“I am here to talk to Okeyo. I have been invited to run abroad and I believe, he will listen to my case,” she said.

Okeyo was not immediately available to comment on the issue.

Chepkurui, has always envied Kenya’s lone senior women cross country gold medallist Hellen Chepngeno. But since Chepngeno’s triumphant victory in 1994 in Budapest, Hungary, Kenya has struggled to remain vibrant in the race which has been dominated by Ethiopians.

But, the current crop of junior runners who have graduated to the senior cadre look promising and convinced, the long wait might be ended in Amman, Jordan. With current champion Tirunesh Dibaba of Ethiopia allegedly injured, Kenya stand best chance to reclaim the title, 15 years down the line.

Last year’s bronze medallist Linet Chepkurui, 2006 Fukuoka junior 6km champion Pauline Korikwiang, Chepkurui, Innes Chenonges, Florence Kiplagat and Ann Karindi will be carrying Kenya’s flag in the event.

Senior women 8km team had no one in camp on Tuesday. But Kirwa said there was no reason for concern. “I have just talked to Masai, Karimbi who are on the way. They will be here in the evening,” he said.

Others who were expected on Tuesday are Linus Chumba, Mark Kiptoo, Leonard Komon, Titus Mbishei, Japheth Korir. World Junior 5,000m bronze medallist Mathews Kisorio is expected on Thursday.