Chebet, Kiprotich Shine at Third Betika Kapsabet 15Km Road Race

Miriam Chebet and Amos Kiprotich delivered commanding performances to clinch top honours at the third edition of the Betika Kapsabet 15Km Road Race held on Sunday, attracting a competitive field of 700 athletes.

Chebet stamped her authority in the women’s race, clocking an impressive 49:33.4 to emerge the only athlete to dip below the 50-minute mark. The double 5,000m and 10,000m medalist at the BingwaFest surged ahead in the closing stages to seal a decisive victory.

Judy Jepngetich finished second in 50:01.6, while Maryan Njoki claimed third place in 50:11.5 in what turned out to be a tightly contested battle for the remaining podium spots. Brenda Jepchumba settled for fourth position after crossing the line in 50:27.5.

“It was a good race, and everything worked just as I had planned,” Chebet said after her triumph. “I have been fine-tuning my speed work since winning at Siaya during BingwaFest, and it is all paying off. I will sit down with my coach, reflect on the race, and plan what next.”

In the men’s contest, Kiprotich edged one of the closest finishes of the day, stopping the clock at 44:22.0. He narrowly beat Philemon Rono Cherop, who posted 44:22.6, while Dennis Kipkurui followed closely in 44:23.1. Cyrus Kipkemoi took fourth place in 44:24.7.

The razor-thin margins underscored the intensity of the race, with the top four separated by less than three seconds.

Kiprotich, a silver medalist at the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country, described the race as highly tactical.

“It was a very tactical race, and I am contented with the execution,” he said. “I stuck with the leading group for most of the race before breaking away with one kilometre left. I am happy to have come out victorious today.”

For their victories, Chebet and Kiprotich each pocketed Sh250,000. Second-place finishers walked away with Sh150,000, while third-place athletes earned Sh100,000. Athletes finishing fourth and fifth received Sh50,000 and Sh40,000 respectively, with competitors placed sixth to tenth in both categories taking home Sh20,000.

The event once again highlighted Kenya’s depth in long-distance running, with emerging and established athletes producing thrilling performances in Kapsabet.