Machoka eyes top 10 finish at national cross

Mountain runner Paul Machoka will target a top 10 finish at the national cross-country championships.

Speaking after retaining the senior men’s 10km title during the Nyanza South cross country championships at Kiendege Secondary School in Nyamira, Machoka said: “The competition at the nationals is always stiff but this time I believe that a top 10 position is achievable. I am in great shape.”

Machoka clocked 31:10.58 to beat veteran Sammy Nyokaye (31:17.28), Josephat Kisaisa (31:42.84) and Felix Boera (32:05.26).

“To be honest, it was a very difficult race. The wet course made it worse but that is how cross country is,” said Machoka, who finished ninth at the Barng’etuny Mountain Running Race in Nandi County.

“After the national championships, I will return my focus to Mountain Running. I want to specialise in that area,” said Machoka.

Nyokaye, who trains in Kericho, said: “Today was not my day. I want to congratulate Machoka for emerging winner. I will use next month Sirikwa Cross Country as I intensify my training,” said Nyokaye.

Teresa Omosa retained the women’s title after cruising to victory in 37:43.88. Nancy Kerage and Agnetah Kerubo completed a podium in respective times of 42:17.76 and 43:41.14.

Omosa said: “It was not a very competitive race. However, I enjoyed it. I’m not sure about competing at the nationals because I have a race in Italy on March 5.”

Riooga Secondary School dominated the junior men’s 8km race through winner, Simeon Boru (24:54.32), Dismas Okioma (24:57.32) and Edwin Saisi (25:10.38).

Junior international Mary Nyaboke of Keberesi won the junior women’s 6km race in 20:28.84 ahead of compatriot Dorcas Isoe (21:37.14).

Athletics Kenya Nyanza South chairman Peter Angwenyi took the opportunity to remind athletes about the dangers of doping and age cheating.