Tanui, Elain win Nyeri County senior races

Laikipia Air Base’s Julius Tanui and Grace Elain won the Nyeri county cross country championships 10km senior races held under scorching conditions at Kabiruini ASK grounds in Nyeri.

Wearing a black jersey and a fresh haircut, Tanui was instantly noticeable after surging to the lead at the 100m mark.

He was closely monitored by Ruring’u-based James Wairimu and Kieni-based James Kariuki. He soon lost the duo after sustaining a high tempo that could not be matched.

By the end of the first two-kilometre loop, he had secured a 10 metres gap as the rest of the runners formed a single profile behind.

At the sixth kilometre mark, the race results had taken shape with Tanui having opened a 50 metres gap from Wairimu as Kariuki, Kieni-based John Ndung’u and Benson Bett in pursuit in that order.

He broke the tape with a confident final kick to post 32:33.04 as Wairimu came in second 20 metres behind in 32.55.09.

“The course is good but I wish the corners were not as sharp. The competition was not as tough as I expected but I am glad I won,” said Tanui.

This was his third cross country event this season having participated in Nyandarua meeting and KDF meeting at Moi Airbase.

He said that he was looking forward to competing in the nationals with an eye on selection.

TOOK CHARGE

In the women’s senior race, Elain took charge at the sound of the gun and never looked back.

Her strategy was simple - to run from the front and control the race speed governor.

Her long strides ate the distance with ease.

She won the race impressively clocking 37.57.48 as Wambui came in second in 40.52.09 as Kimondo managed third in 41.05.02.

“I am happy I will join the team. Now I can work my way to the national team,” she said.

Jackson Maina from Mukurweini (8 km) and Tetu-based Teresiah Muthoni (6km) won in the junior categories.