Nelvin Jepkembioi reacts after winning 21-km race/HANDOUT
Jepkemboi, 23, produced a decisive kick to claim the title, clocking 1:09:25 ahead of Millicent Jelimo who clocked 1:09:36 and Emily Chebet who completed the podium in 1:10:19.
Jepkemboi, traditionally a 5,000m and 10,000m runner, noted that she decided to participate in the race after having done sufficient long runs in training.
"I have been doing long runs. I have not been doing training for the track, so I decided to come today and run the half marathon, and I emerged victorious," Jepkemboi said.
Jepkemboi credited her training partner, marathon great and former world record holder Brigid Kosgei, for playing a pivotal role in her preparation.
"I thank Brigid Kosgei for her guidance in my training. She has played a big role in my build-up for this race today," she added.
Despite being her first outing over 21km, Jepkemboi showed poise beyond her years.
"I had the strength to push on. This was my first half marathon, and it was a great experience," she noted.
With her victory, Jepkemboi reckons she has a bright future over 21km.
"I see I have a good future in the half marathon because I was able to run a good time in my debut, which is a huge plus for me," she noted.
Runner-up Jelimo, who trains in Kapsabet, was proud of her progression after finishing fifth at last year’s edition.
"I ran last year and finished fifth and decided to do more speed work for this year's edition."
In the men’s race, Evans Kipchumba also made a sparkling debut at the Nairobi City Marathon, clinching the crown in 1:01:20.
He edged out Stephen Kimutai by a second (1:01:21), with Nahason Kipsang completing the podium in 1:01:32.
"This was my first race at the Nairobi City Marathon and I am glad I was able to win," Kipchumba said. Reflecting on the race, Kipchumba noted that he trusted his finishing kick in the final stretch to the line.
"The race was good, the only challenge was the weather. I knew I had the finishing kick and I was ready for it," he said.
For Kimutai, the runner-up finish marked a career breakthrough.
"This is my first race to make the podium. I have been making the top 10 in my previous races, and now to make the podium is a huge bonus," he noted.
