Eldoret City Marathon 2026: Cheruiyot and Chesang Triumph in Thrilling Photo-Finish Races
The close finishes and elite performances underscored Kenya’s continued dominance in long-distance running and the rising competitiveness of its marathon scene.
Dorrine Chesang and Koech Cheruiyot receive their winners’ gifts after clinching victory in the Eldoret City Marathon 2026 in a dramatic photo-finish race. Photo/ Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Koech Cheruiyot and Dorrine Chesang delivered standout performances as the Eldoret City Marathon 2026 lived up to expectations, producing thrilling, closely contested finishes in both the men’s and women’s races.
The event, held in Eldoret, saw elite athletes battle to the final kilometres, underlining the race’s growing status on the global athletics calendar.
In the men’s race, Cheruiyot surged to victory in 2:12:53 after an intense head-to-head contest with Kiprotich Leonard, who finished second in 2:13:23. Kiplimo Hosea secured third place in 2:13:29, just six seconds behind, with the leading trio running in close formation for much of the race.
Cheruiyot disclosed that he overcame physical discomfort in the closing stages to secure the win.
“The race presented some challenges; I was experiencing a stomachache up to the 35th KM but I managed to win after some relief in the final part of the race,” he said.
He added that he plans to use part of his Sh3.5 million prize money to buy land for his mother in Londiani.
The women’s race was equally competitive, with Chesang clocking 2:30:26 to edge out Margaret Muruiki, who finished second in 2:30:45. Jackline Jerono completed the podium in 2:31:51.
Chesang attributed her victory to disciplined training and preparation.
“The race was nice; I had prepared for it with thorough training at our camp in Trans Nzoia,” she said.
Winners in both categories received Sh3.5 million, while second- and third-place finishers earned Sh1.5 million and Sh1 million respectively.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii highlighted the broader impact of the marathon, noting its role in promoting youth empowerment, economic growth, and international recognition for the region.
Meanwhile, Kipchumba Ruto, representing the Ministry of Sports, reiterated the government’s commitment to athletics and encouraged diversification into other sporting disciplines to expand opportunities for young people.
Beyond competition, the marathon also advanced a climate action message, with organisers linking sport to environmental conservation initiatives.
The tightly contested finishes and strong elite field reaffirmed Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running, while showcasing the increasing competitiveness of local marathon events.
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