NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 21 – Two-time Chicago Marathon champion Ruth Chepngetich has lauded cross country as her favourite race despite the fact that it stretches her physical abilities to the test.
Chepngetich said running in cross country races has always prepared her for subsequent competitions in the marathons regardless of the pain she always feels when on the course.
“I love cross country because despite the fact that I always feel a lot of pain. It always helps improve my fitness levels and preparations for other upcoming competitions. I am preparing to go and defend my title at the Nagoya Women’s Marathon in March and running in cross country has been a good way for me to prepare,” the 2019 World marathon champion said.
Chepngetich led from start to finish to win the senior women’s 10km race in the National Cross Country Championships at the Kenya Prisons Training College in Ruiru on Saturday.
She clocked 0:32:56 in first place, ahead of the 2016 Africa 5000m champion Sheila Chepkirui (0:32:58) and Zena Jemutai (0:33:06).
Commenting on the race, Chepngetich gave plaudits to Chepkirui for pushing her close, noting that she was at one point fearful that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer would usurp her from the lead.
“Yes, at one point it crossed my mind (Chepkirui overtaking her). At the third lap, I felt a sharp pain in my legs, which was made worse by the fact that there was a group of fans who were cheering her on and she was gaining momentum,” the Kenya Prisons officer said.
Eye on Boston
On her part, Chepkirui is hopeful that her good showing at the national championships heralds brighter days ahead as she prepares to compete in her second-ever road race at the Boston Marathon in April.
“I made my debut in the 42km in December last year and I am looking forward to the Boston Marathon. It is going to be my second-ever marathon and I know it won’t be easy so I need to work extra hard in training. Today’s competition is another step towards peak physical fitness as I prepare for April,” the Commonwealth Games 10,000m bronze medalist said.
She also gave props to Chepngetich for her tenacity to claim top honour.
“I really wanted to win the race today but Ruth was just too tough and determined to hold on for the victory,” Chepkirui said.
Chepkirui’s last race was a third-place finish at the Valencia Marathon in December.
