Domongole, Jerotich shine in third edition of Nandi Barng'etuny Memorial Mountain Run

Fredrick Domongole from Pokot and Sharon Jerotich from Kapsabet are the winners of the third edition of the Nandi Barng'etuny Memorial Mountain Run that was held at its traditional venue in Tinderet, Nandi Hills on Sunday, 7 January.

Domongole was building up on his previous performance in the second edition where he finished fifth. This time around, he conquered the tough course in 51:48:80 to achieve his long-term dream of shining in a Mountain Running event. 

"The race was tough and competitive but I did my best and emerged as the winner. First edition I was position two, second edition, position five, but I did my best today to win this. I was working hard at training and the fruits were visible. I want to go back to training (Kapenguria) and shine in the coming events. The course was not as tough because I was already used to it," he averred.

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Jerotich on the other hand crossed the finish line in 1:16:57. It was difficult to tell that she had not competed in the event before, as she effortlessly crossed the mark, and was still energetic for the interview. It was also her first mountain running event, having previously competed in road races, 10,000m, and 3,000m steeplechase events.

Speaking after the impressive win, the youngster was over the moon, noting that it was a 'miracle'.

"Today's race has been like a miracle to me because I have never won any race. I have never been top three. I was expecting position four or five but I thank God. The course was tough but I did my best. I came with all my strength, and when I did not see people behind me, I knew I was among the winners. I run road races. In St Luke Koisolik, where I studied my high school education, I ran 10,000m and 3,000m steeplechase," the excited Jerotich told Mozzart Sport.

Reigning mountain running champion Patrick Kipng'eno failed to defend his title this time round. He crossed the mark second in 54:21:90, three minutes behind Domongole.

According to Kipng'eno, the races were getting competitive as days went by, and he was grateful that he was among the podium finishers. He trains in Nakuru County. Kipng'eno noted that he was using the race as preparation for the Golden Series scheduled for April in China.

"The race has been great, although competing with top athletes was a little challenging, but I thank God I managed position two. I did not expect to be among the top three because the course was tough. It is an indication of my potential this season," he offered.

Richard Ayuya completed the podium in 55:00:6.

In the ladies' category, Hellen Jepkorir came in second after running under 1:17:05 while Marion Chepkoech sealed the top three slots with a time of 1:17:19.

The event was graced by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Nandi County Governor Stephen Sang among other dignitaries.

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Results

Senior Men

1. Fredrick Domongole 51:48:80

2. Patrick Kipng'eno 54:21:90

3. Richard Ayuya 55:00:6

4. Gideon Kipchirchir 55:37:30

5. Josephat Kiprotich 55:52:18

Senior Women

1. Sharon Jerotich 1:16:57

2. Hellen Jepkorir 1:17:05

3. Marion Chepkoech 1:17:19

4. Risper Chepngetich 1:18:00

5. Rose Chepchumba 1:18:17