Newcomers rule KDF X-Country Championships
Kandie Kibiwott (left) of Embakasi being congratulated by Artillery Brigade Commander Isaac Muchendu after winning the men's 10km race during the Kenya Defence Forces Cross Championships on January 25, 2019 at Kahawa Garisson. PHOTO | AYUMBA AYODI |
What you need to know:
- Kosgei, the 2015 World Under-18 1,500m bronze medallist, came in second in 29:01.4 with Cheruiyot settling third in 29:03.7.
- Kosgei won the Kapsokwony leg of Athletics Kenya Cross Country series.
Newcomer Kandie Kibiwott from Embakasi conquered a rich field to win this year's Kenya Defence Forces Cross Championships men's 10km race at Kahawa Garisson on Friday.
The leading pack stayed together for the better part of the first three laps before Kandie, Lawi Kosgei ( Moi Airbase) and Vedic Cheruiyot(Navy) surged forward in a thrilling exchange of leads under the scorching sun at Kahawa.
Cheruiyot was then dropped as Kibiwott and Kosgei went neck-to-neck into the last lap.
Kosgei led going into the last 1km only for a tactical Kibiwott to take charge in the last 300m to win in 28 minutes and 55.7 seconds.
KOSGEI SECOND
Kosgei, the 2015 World Under-18 1,500m bronze medallist, came in second in 29:01.4 with Cheruiyot settling third in 29:03.7.
"It's a blessing to win on my debut at this event and I hope to represent well at the Nationals," said Kibiwott, who is now eying the ultimate crown during the National Cross Country Championships planned for February 23 at Eldoret Golf Club.
It's at the nationals that a team will be selected for the World Cross Country Championships slated for March 30 in Aarhus, Denmark.
"I know the battle will be tough but we shall prepare well," said Kibiwott.
"It will be great if I am to win at the Nationals and represent Kenya again," said Kosgei, who was also taking part at the KDF event for the first time. Kosgei won the Kapsokwony leg of Athletics Kenya Cross Country series.
