Chekwemoi Shines as Kenyan Stars Falter in Women’s Race
Chekwemoi, elated by her victory, described winning in Kenya—a nation renowned for its dominance in long-distance running—as a significant milestone
Ugandan athlete Loice Chekwemoi stole the show in the women’s category of the Chepsaita Cross Country, overcoming stiff competition to claim the title in 34:32. Photo/Pulse Sports.
Ugandan athlete Loice Chekwemoi stole the show in the women’s category of the Chepsaita Cross Country, overcoming stiff competition to claim the title in 34:32. Ethiopian Medides Shimeles Molla followed in second place with a time of 35:57, while Kenyan Celestine Biwott settled for third, clocking 36:43.
Chekwemoi, elated by her victory, described winning in Kenya—a nation renowned for its dominance in long-distance running—as a significant milestone. “Winning in the home of champions is a dream come true,” said Chekwemoi. “I told myself during the race that I am also a champion. This win motivates me to aim for the World Championship title next year.”
She credited her resilience and the support of spectators for her success. “I had to be tough to become a champion. In the second loop, I felt myself moving confidently. The cheers from the crowd gave me the extra push I needed,” Chekwemoi added.
Maasai Eyes Team Kenya Spot for Tokyo World Championships
Meanwhile, in the men’s race, 2022 Sirikwa Classic Cross Country champion Samwel Chebolei Maasai claimed victory with a time of 30:49. He edged out World U20 Cross Country bronze medalist Matthew Kipkoech Kipruto, who clocked 30:58, and 2019 African Games 5000m champion Robert Kiprop, who finished third in 31:12.
Maasai, who was fifth at this year’s World Cross Country Championships, where he contributed to Kenya’s team gold medal, is focused on making Team Kenya for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo next year.
“This is part of my training and preparation for the upcoming athletics season,” Maasai said. “I’m training hard to earn a spot on Team Kenya. I haven’t decided which race I will compete in yet, but I am focused on performing well at the trials.”
Reflecting on his past achievements, including an eighth-place finish at the 2019 World U20 Cross Country Championships where he helped Kenya secure team bronze, Maasai reiterated his determination. “My goal is to train well, perform strongly at the trials, and represent Kenya at the World Championships,” he said.
As both Chekwemoi and Maasai set their sights on next year’s global competitions, their performances at Chepsaita have marked them as athletes to watch on the international stage.
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