Kipsang defends title, Obiri and Tabunda bag crowns

Former world indoor 1500m silver medallist Hellen Obiri obliterated the field to win the 5000m as Emmanuel Kipsang successfully defended the 10000m title at the Kenya Defence Forces at Kasarani Stadium.

Obiri, returning to the fold following the birth of her kid, also won a bronze medal in her specialty, stepping onto the track in quick succession that showed her courage and determination from the Laikipia Airbase runner.

Kahawa Barracks' Winnie Chebet, a former world junior silver medallist, won the 1500m title as Priscilla Tabunda won a hattrick in 400m hurdles, Long jump and 100m hurdles to send Isiolo on top of the rankings on day one.

Mtongwe's Kipsang, a world military games silver medallist, lived to his favourites tag, following his double act during the 2015 edition.

The race started with a high-pitched pace but it wasn't until the seventh lap that Kipsang kicked further, dropping a host of the leading pack runners save for cross country powerhouse Stephen Arita, veteran Leonard Oleitiptip and Kiplimo Mutai.

The four exchanged leads for most of the race but Kipsang proved too strong when he surged ahead with six laps to go, opened a 200m gap that he took to the finish line in a time of 28:28.1.

Arita, representing Nairobi, was second in 28:44.2 with Mutai bagging the bronze medal in 28:49.0.

“I thank God for today's victory. I have worked so hard in training and my preparations were geared towards retaining my title,” said Kipsang.

“I will also seek to defend the KDF 5000m title (on Friday). All this is geared towards seeking a slot to the Olympics. I will be doing the 5000m race during the national trials but 10000m during the national championships.”

“Today's race was a game of 'man-to-man' as the rest were working to ensure I don't retain my title,” observed Kipsang. “I have proved I was ready. I want to correct the mistakes I did last year and ensure I am among the best heading to Rio.”

Obiri took the 5000m title in 15:21.8 followed by Moi Airbase runner Joyline Jepkosgei (15:40.0), as Thika's Sheila Chepkurui finished third in 15:42.4.

“I am so happy with this win, coming back from my maternity,” said Obiri. “I had trained hard for this race, since January, to test my body but will revert to my 1500m specialty. I am not prepared for 5000m at the top level, maybe next year.”

Selected final results:

1500m (W): Winnie Chebet (1:14.4), Judy Kiyeng (14:15.1), Hellen Obiri (4:16.1

400m (H) (W): Priscilla Tabunda (61.7), Nancy Sang (62.1), Catherine Nandi (63.4)

Shot Put (M): Boaz Monyancha 15.36m), Benson Maina (15.14m), Vincent Tuikong (14.78)

Pole Vault (W): Caroline Cherotich (2.90m), Norah Jeptoo (2:80m), Ann Kisaingu (2.30m)

Long jump (W): Priscilla Tabunda (5.98m), Cherotich Koech (5.57m), Patriciah Isichi (5.48m)