Loice Chemnung and Shadrack Ngumbao delivered commanding performances at the Kenya Prisons Cross Country Championships on Saturday at the Prisons Staff Training College, Ruiru, clinching victories in their respective categories.
Chemnung cut the tape in 33:09.7 with Brillian Chepkorir (33:27.7) and National 800m champion Lilian Odira (33:44.9) completing the podium.
Women's World Marathon record holder Ruth Chepng'etich missed the podium placing fourth in 33:44.9.
Reflecting on her victory, Chemnung expressed surprise, attributing her success to focused training.
“I didn’t expect to win today, but I’m thankful I managed to secure the title despite the high competition."
"My training has been intense in preparations for this Championshis and it has paid off," Chemnung said.
Chemnung, who narrowly missed last year’s title after finishing second (35:44.50) to Lilian Kasait (34:50), is now shifting her focus to the National Championships.
She further revealed plans to serve as a pacemaker at the Osaka Marathon on February 24.
“For now, I’m preparing for the Nationals. After that, I will act as a pace setter in the Osaka Marathon,” she added.
Chemnung noted that a full Marathon debut is still too soon adding that she is still focusing on Half Marathons and road races.
"I don't have plans of joining the Marathon soon, maybe after two years I will now shift to the Marathon," she added.
Chemnung enjoyed a stellar 2024 season with notable victories, including the Hong Kong 10K (30:25), Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon (1:07:27), Brasov 10K (30:13) and Malaga Half Marathon (1:05:58).
Her goals for the season is securing a spot on Kenya’s 5000m team for the World Championships.
“I will be working hard to earn my place in the 5000m. It’s my primary target this year,” she stated.
Ngumbao executed a well-calculated strategy in the men's race finishing in 30:11.5, ahead of Boaz Kiprugut (30:43.5) and Silas Chepkwony (30:48).
Ngumbao’s triumph was a testament to resilience after a disappointing showing at last year’s Championships.
“Last year’s poor results motivated me to work harder. I focused on endurance and build-up training, which made the difference today,” said Ngumbao, who trains in Ngong under coach Peter Muteti.
Looking ahead, Ngumbao is eyeing a ticket to represent Kenya in the 10,000m at the World Championships.
“I am well-prepared and optimistic about securing a place in the 10,000m. I hope to deliver strong performances to achieve that goal,” he remarked.
