Nandi runner Eunice Chebichii tops Shoe4Africa race

Eunice Chebichii of Nandi County on Thursday won the tenth edition of the Shoe4Africa women’s 5km race in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

Over 500 women braved the cold conditions in the rush for Christmas gifts, including $500 (Sh50,000) prize money for winners and other goodies. Everyone who competed also received a pair of running shoes.

Chebichii, who recently changed her nationality to Bahrain, won her second race in a month after winning the Kalya Half Marathon in West Pokot County last month. She was second at Ziwa Farmers 10km Race two weeks ago.

“The race was very close,” said Chebichii, who clocked 16min,24.2sec.

“Strong headwinds were a big problem and that’s why I did not succeed to break the course record which I was really prepared to go for.” Chebichii revealed she will competed at next month’s Dubai Marathon.

Pre-race favourite and 2012 World Half Marathon bronze medallist Pascaliah Jepkorir finished second in 16.27.5.

Jepkorir was using the race in readiness for a half marathon she’s to feature in Europe next month.

Gladys Yator (16.48.8) finished third after commanding the lead for the opening four kilometres while Magdalene Masai closed in fourth place in 16.53.3. Vivian Jemutai was fifth in 16.56.4 and Viola Jepchumba timing 17.06.0 for sixth.

The foundation is geared at improving the lives of Kenyan children through education and support them to grow their athletics talent, thus, the reason for giving out shoes to every competitor. The Shoe4Africa also aims to contribute to the fight against HIV/AIDS in Kenya.

SUMMARISED RESULTS

1.Eunice Chebichii (16.24.2), 2.Pascaliah Jepkorir (16.27.5), 3.Gladys Yator (16.46.8), 4.Magdalene Masai (16.55.3), 5.Vivian Chemutai (16.56.4), 6.Viola Jepchumba (17.06.0), 7.Ivy Kibet (17.14.5), 8.Naomy Maiyo (17.16.3), 9.Gladys Kibiwott (17.23.0), 10.Sheila Jerotich (17.24.0).