Kipkosgei, Jelangat Rule the Roost at Inaugural Absa City Run in Eldoret
Cornelius Kipkosgei Konor and Betty Jelangat emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s 10km races respectively at the inaugural Absa City Run Eldoret Edition on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
By James Gitaka
Cornelius Kipkosgei Konor and Betty Jelangat delivered impressive performances to claim top honours at the inaugural Absa City Run Eldoret Edition, which attracted athletes from across the region.
The race started and finished at Absa Bank’s Eldoret branch, taking competitors through the streets of the city popularly known as the City of Champions.
Konor won the men’s 10km race in 30:27.4 following a closely contested finish, edging David Korichei, who clocked 30:34.8, while Mark Kipkoech settled for third place in 30:36.5.
The winner admitted that he struggled during the opening lap but gradually found his rhythm towards the closing stages after realising his body was responding well.
He subsequently increased his pace before launching a decisive sprint to the finish line.
“The first lap was difficult, but towards the last lap I realised my body was responding well. I decided to sprint and managed to win,” said Konor.
The athlete said he used the competition as part of his preparations for the upcoming Chepsaita Cross Country, adding that he was keen to improve his speed work ahead of the event.
In the women’s category, Jelangat claimed victory in 34:43.7, narrowly beating Leah Jekwemoi, who finished second in 34:49.5. Sharon Kiptugen completed the podium in 35:50.4.
Jelangat’s victory came despite battling a nerve injury in her leg, making her performance particularly impressive.
She said she was delighted with the outcome, explaining that she approached the competition without putting herself under unnecessary pressure.
“I am happy to have won the race. I did not put myself under any pressure; I just ran my race,” said Jelangat.
She added that she would prioritise recovery and nursing her injury before consulting her coach on her next competitive assignment.
The inaugural race formed part of Absa Bank Kenya’s centenary celebrations as the financial institution marked 100 years of operations in the country.
The event also provided an opportunity for the bank to strengthen its engagement with local communities through sport.
Men’s 10km Race Results
Cornelius Kipkosgei Konor won the men’s 10km race in 30:27.4, followed by David Korichei in second place in 30:34.8. Mark Kipkoech finished third in 30:36.5.
Canton Kiplimo placed fourth in 30:50.4, Raymond Sinei finished fifth in 30:52.5, while Jacob Kaptoro completed the top six in 30:56.3.
Women’s 10km Race Results
Betty Jelangat claimed the women’s title in 34:43.7, narrowly ahead of runner-up Leah Jekwemoi, who clocked 34:49.5. Sharon Kiptugen finished third in 35:50.4.
Sandra Jebet came fourth in 35:59.2, followed by Veronicah Wakoraya in fifth place in 36:04.5. Mutuyimana Berthilde completed the top six in 36:10.1.
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