Kip Keino Classic: Lilian Odira secures emotional maiden victory on Kenyan soil
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 31.05.25. | 17:07
Odira held off a strong late challenge from Botswana’s Nowe Oratile, who clocked 1:58.47 to settle for second place
US-based middle-distance runner Lilian Odira delivered a career-defining performance at the Kip Keino Classic, winning the women's 800m and claiming her first-ever victory on Kenyan soil.
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The event, held at Nairobi’s Ulinzi Sports Complex, saw Odira storm to victory in a personal best time of 1:58.31.
Odira held off a strong late challenge from Botswana’s Nowe Oratile, who clocked 1:58.47 to settle for second place.
Kenyan pre-race favourite Sarah Moraa also posted 1:58.47, taking third place in a thrilling photo finish with a personal best.
In a race that delivered drama, speed, and all three podium finishers recorded personal bests, underlining the quality and competitiveness of the contest.
Shafiqua Maloney, who had led for the better part of the race, faded in the closing stretch to finish fourth in 1:59.13, despite a spirited effort.
Odira ran a calm and calculated race. From the gun, she opted for a conservative approach, choosing to sit behind the leading pack.
As the pace intensified with about 500m remaining, the Kenyans, who had largely stayed under the radar, began to make their move.
Odira surged forward with intent, closely tracked by Moraa and Oratile.
With 100 meters to go, she timed her final kick to perfection, overtaking Maloney and charging towards the finish line with grit and composure.
Moraa and Oratile followed in hot pursuit, but Odira held firm to seal a deeply emotional win.
Other Kenyan participants included Judy Kemunto, Dorcus Ewoi, and Maureen Chepkirui, who finished fifth, seventh, and eighth, respectively.
Daisy Chepngetich, unfortunately, did not finish the race.
Born and raised in Kenya, Odira moved to the United States for training and competition opportunities, steadily climbing the ranks in collegiate and professional athletics.
A former standout at the University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP), Odira has been honing her craft in the NCAA circuit and international meets.
Though she has represented Kenya on several occasions abroad, Saturday’s win was especially significant—it marked her first triumph at home in front of a Kenyan crowd.
For a runner who has often flown under the radar, this victory is more than just a personal best; it is a breakthrough moment that could redefine her career trajectory.
