Nyanza South suffer blow ahead of National Cross Country Championships

The Nyanza South team for the Betika National Cross Country Championships, set for Eldoret on Saturday, has been dealt a major blow following the withdrawal of two key athletes.

Experienced marathoners Dickson Simba and Teresia Omosa have withdrawn from the squad to focus on their preparations for the Istanbul Marathon, scheduled for November 2.

Speaking on Thursday, Simba confirmed that both he and Omosa would skip the national event.

“We have decided to withdraw from the National Cross Country Championships. We would have wanted to represent the region, but after consultations, we have decided to focus on the Istanbul Marathon preparations,” said Simba.

Simba, who made his marathon debut at the Tel Aviv Marathon in March, where he finished fifth in 2:14:00, said he is targeting an improved performance in Turkey.

“Being my second full marathon, my target is to improve on my personal best and finish in a top-three position,” he said from his training base in Mochenwa, Nyamira County.

Athletics Kenya South treasurer David Ogechi described the pair’s withdrawal as a setback but confirmed they had been replaced ahead of the championships, which will be held at the Eldoret Sports Club.

In the senior women’s 10km race, the Nyanza South team will now be led by Rael Matheka, Doldpine Nyagaka, Dolpine Jepkosgei, Ronah Nyabochoa, and Marion Nyabiba.

The senior men’s squad comprises Leonard Odupoi, Titus Mogusu, Benedict Karori, Vincent Amota, and Hesborn Okora.

In the 2km loop, Joseph Mochabo, James Gechuki, and Jephiter Tengeya will represent the region, while Everlyn Nyaboke, Julida Osoro, and Faith Kemunto will feature in the women’s category.

For the men’s 8km race, the region’s hopes rest on Perminus Tinega, Zachary Kipsaisak, Jackson Machuka, Eugine Manase, Anthony Nyabuto, and Joel Omwoyo.

The women’s 6km team includes Cynthia Isoe, Yvonne Mogeni, Naom Kerubo, Cynthia Ebisiba, Abigael Chepkorir, and Ruth Ondara.