Long Distance Runner Ben Chelimo Somikwo Clinches Victory
Long distance runner Ben Chelimo Somikwo emerged victorious in the regional cross-country championships held in Mbale City. Competing for the Prisons Athletics Club, Somikwo displayed remarkable prowess by securing a triumphant win in the 21km race, completing it in 1 hour, 2 minutes, and 2 seconds. Notably, his formidable performance was closely followed by Maxwell Kortek Rotich, who crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 2 minutes, and 99 seconds. Andrew Kwemoi, securing the third position, completed the race in 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 53 seconds.
Somikwo’s path to victory was marked by determination and strategic decision making. Initially, he held the third position as Kwemoi and Rotich led the race, breaking away from the group after the first 7 kilometers. However, Somikwo made a significant push at the 19km mark, bridging the gap and eventually sprinting ahead of his competitors to secure his well-deserved podium finish. Somikwo expressed his joy at the win, particularly after a prolonged period of being sidelined due to injuries. He now aims to prepare for the 2023 MTN Kampala Marathon.
Mercyline Chelangat Triumphs in the Senior Women’s Category
In the senior women’s category, Mercyline Chelangat proved her mettle by crossing the finish line in 1 hour, 11 minutes, and 67 seconds. This impressive performance allowed her to surpass the 2018 Commonwealth gold medalist, Stella Chesang, who finished in 1 hour, 12 minutes, and 9 seconds. Annet Chelangat Chemengich secured the third position, completing the race in 1 hour, 13 minutes, and 40 seconds.
Chelangat, who had represented Uganda at the 2023 World Champions in Marathon women, found the course accommodating despite challenging cold weather conditions. She commended the largely flat and runner-friendly terrain, even in the face of cold weather and drizzles. Reflecting on the competition, Chelangat acknowledged the stiff challenge posed by her fellow athletes, particularly her friend Stella Chesang, who is equally proficient in road racing. Chelangat attributed her success to divine guidance and glory.
Rodgers Kwemoi Leads in the 10km Race
In the 10km race, Rodgers Kwemoi emerged as the winner with an impressive time of 30 minutes and 12 seconds. Hosea Chemutai secured the second position, crossing the finish line in 30 minutes and 56 seconds, while Silas Sande claimed the third spot, completing the race in 31 minutes and 4 seconds. Meanwhile, in the women’s category, Prisca Chesang Chemweno outshone her competitors by finishing with a time of 34 minutes and 14 seconds.
Uganda Athletics Federation Applauds Athletes for Climate Change Marathon
Njia Benjamin, the Technical Head and National Coach of the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), extended his congratulations to the athletes who participated in the inaugural UNDP Elgon half marathon. He emphasized that this event holds particular significance as it centers around the theme of climate change, signifying the athletes’ role as ambassadors of change. Benjamin emphasized UAF’s commitment to environmental restoration, underlining the integral role athletes play in addressing climate concerns.
