Reigning Los Angeles marathon champion Stacy Ndiwa and former Africa Cross Country bronze medalist Charles Mneira were the winners of the second edition of Iten 15km Road race held in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet county.
Ndiwa, a former Commonwealth Games 10,000m silver medalist, won the women's race in 51:13.9 ahead of Catherine Reline (51:21.2), Naomi Jebet (51:25.8), Rachel Jebet (51:49.6), Wilfridah Moseti (52:08.8) and Agnes Barsosio (52:21.5) in a heavily-contested race.
Ndiwa said a desire to compete at the World Championships in Budapest in August inspired her to the victory despite a tricky course and competitive field.
“Today’s race was too tough, especially on the hilly sections. But I managed to win as I am focused on the World Championships,” said Ndiwa.
The former Africa 10,000m champion revealed that her next assignment is at the Boston 10km set for next month in the USA.
“This is also part of my endurance training ahead of the Boston 10km. I want to do well again in the USA after winning in Los Angeles last month,” said Ndiwa, who is returning from maternity leave.
Reline, who was a pacemaker at the London Marathon last month, said she had not trained well ahead of the event, something she will work on going forward.
“I had a few days in training to compete in this race after pacing in London. However, I am satisfied with my position,” she said.
Mneria clocked 45:05.6 ahead of Weldon Lagat (45:19.7) and Maxwell Rotich (45:24.9).
“This is part of my training ahead of the world championships trials. I need to make the team to Budapest,” said Mneria.
Selected results
Men
Charles Mneira- 45:05.6
Weldon lagat- 45:19.7
Maxwell Rotich- 45:24.9
Collins Kipkorir- 45:30.9
Kelvin Kibiwott- 45:45.1
Martin Mumo- 45:58.9
Women
Stacy Ndiwa- 51:13.9
Catherine Reline- 51:21.2
Naomi Jebet- 51:25.8
Rachel Jebet- 51:49.6
Wilfridah Moseti- 52:08.8
Agnes Barsosio- 52:21.5
