Cherotich eyeing first half marathon title after clinching silver in Chemususu
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Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 17.11.24. | 21:03
This was the second time the 26-year-old was featuring in a half marathon race
Joyline Cherotich is eager to build on her second-place finish in the ninth edition of the Mozzart Bet Chemususu Dam Half Marathon and secure her first-ever win in the event.
Cherotich made her second appearance in a half marathon memorable by clinching silver after clocking 1:19:21 in Chemususu, Baringo County, on Saturday.
The Keringet-based athlete was outpaced by Gladys Koech, who clocked 1:17:00 to take the gold.
The 26-year-old had previously made her debut in the Trento Half Marathon in Italy last October, where she finished third.
She settled for bronze after timing 1:11:58 with Etenesh Diro and Worknesh Degefa picking up silver and gold in 1:09:50 and 1:07:48 respectively.
Cherotich revealed that, moving up a place higher on the podium remains her top priority in her subsequent race, which she anticipates will be possibly take place next year.
"I am satisfied with my performance in my first two half marathon races. Making it to the podium in your first two appearances is no a mean feat. I will build on my second-place finish here and go for gold in my next race," she said.
Reacting to her performance in Chemususu, Cherotich said persevering through the harsh weather and hilly course earned her the silver.
" It was my first time to participate in Chemususu Half Marathon. It was very tough given the weather and course. I never thought of giving up," she said.
Cherotich, began taking athletics seriously in 2016 after clearing studies at Winner Girls High School in Keringet.
She draws inspiration from three-time 1500m Olympic champion and record holder Faith Kipyegon, who also studied.
Before transitioning to road races, Cherotich had represented the country in track events at the youth and junior level.
She is a former World U-18 1500m bronze medalist and an Africa U20 champion over the distance.
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