Robert Kipkemboi and Naomi Jebet have been crowned the 2023 Nairobi City Marathon champions after reigning supreme in their respective races.
Kipkemboi dropped the leading pack after 36km mark on his way to crossing the tape in 2:07:38.
The 33-year-old beat Charles Mneria who clocked a personal best of 2:08:04 to second.
Kipkemboi attested that the race was not an easy task considering the chilly weather during the racing hours."It was a tough race, the competition was intense. The chilly weather made it more difficult but I have run in worse conditions. I am thrilled to have won the race having missed the chance to compete in last year's event," said Kipkemboi.
He was not worried by the presence of defending champion Brimin Misoi who failed in his title defence mission.
“Competing with Misoi did not worry me. I was focused on finishing in the medal bracket. That is what I worked for throughout the race and am glad I have finally achieved my target."
The 29-year-old Jebet dropped the leading pack after 35km mark on her way to victory.
The 2019 Kasa International Marathon champion clocked 2:24:33 ahead of Sharlon Chelimo who settled for second in 2:25:20.
Judith Jerubet completed the podium in 2:27:01.
"It was not an easy race having to chase the leading pack for 10kms. I am surprised I managed to win this race," said Jebet.
The winners of the marathon walked home with Sh3.5million while runners-up pocket Sh2.25million.
Third place finishers won Sh1.5millon.
In the half marathon race, Uganda's Maxwell Rotich stunned the home boys after clocking 1:00:10 to win the race ahead of Kenya's Vincent Kipkorir- 1:01:18 while Kennedy Kimutai finished third in 1:01:24.
In the women's cadre, Gladys Chepkurui won the race in 1:09:06 ahead of Susan Chembai in 1:10:05 while Nancy Chepleting won bronze medal after clocking 1:10:17.
