L. MathekaKiprop wins 10000m to book Africa Championship ticket
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 27.04.22. | 15:14
The continental championship will be held from 8 to12 June at the Côte d'Or National Sports Complex in the city of Reduit, Mauritius
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) half marathon bronze medalist Keneth Kiprop clocked 28:14.81in a barely uncontested victory at the ongoing Athletics Kenya (AK) National championship for his first victory at the stage.
The 25-year old has booked his slot to the Senior African Athletics Championships set for June in Mauritius where he will be doing the Kenyan colours for the first time ever.
Kenneth Kiprop of Western Region, produced a powerful performance to destroy the field to wins men's 10,000m in 28:06.67 at the National Athletics Championships at Kasarani Stadium. pic.twitter.com/j6BgYagULe
— Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) April 27, 2022
In a field that had experienced long distance runners led by 2016 Olympics 10000m silver medalist Paul Tanui, Kiprop lurked in the leading pack, never taking the lead until Tanui showed signs of fatigue half way through the race.
With about ten laps to go, Kiprop took over from Tanui who had dictated the pace of the race thus far and held on to the lead, putting about a 30m gap between him and the rest of field heading for the win.
"I came prepared to meet the best in the field so my training was good. I began the season with a second-place finish at the national cross country, before heading to RAK where I managed a sub 59 for third place.
I also did a 10km race in Lille, France managing 26:57 I also won the Prague Half Marathon in 59:28 and then barked on training for Istanbul Half Marathon but I changed my plans and decided to go for a chance to represent the country," explained Kiprop.
2016 Olympics Bronze Medalist Paul Tanui (718) leading the pack in men's 10000m final. pic.twitter.com/slwcj3NtGX
— Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) April 27, 2022
Julius Chepkwony and and Abraham Longosiwa representing Central Rift and North Rift finished second and third in 28:32.89 and 28:40.89 respectively. Chepkwony has also punched his ticket to Mauritius.
This being Kiprop's first time to represent Kenya in any championship, he has his eyes set on beating even bigger stars to lift the African title.
"From this race, I feel that I am still struggling with speed and that will be my main focus in training from now on as I prepare for the championship in June," Kiprop added.
Kiprop who has concentrated in road and distance racing in recent times says he was hoping to face the likes of Rhonex Kipruto and Kibiwott Kandie as he says he is yet to face the two who have ruled the distance.
