L. MathekaKoros readying for KDF Cross country with eyes on title
Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 30.12.21. | 19:36
The one-day even is scheduled for 9 January
Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) 10,000m and 5000m champion Collins Koros has his sights set on the forces' Cross Country title to begin his 2022 season on a high.
The track and road racer, fresh from winning silver at the Bahrain Royal International Night Half Marathon, a World Athletics Label road race, behind Philemon Kiplimo says he took a break to regroup for the new season.
"I took a short break but I am back in training at Ngong in preparation for the KDF event set for 9 January. I know competition will be stiff for this championship, being the beginning of a busy season. Everyone will be out to test themselves but I feel ready for the event," said Koros in an interview.
The event will be used to select a team that will represent KDF at the National Cross Country Championship.
"I am hoping to make the team to compete in the national championship and eventually, the invite-only World Athletics Cross Country Tour in February," added Koros.
In 2019 he finished 11th at the KDF cross country and moved to fourth in 2020, making the national team where he finished 12th.
In 2021, Koros continued to impress as he finished second to former World half marathon record holder Kibowott Kandie who easily defended his title after leading from start to finish to cross the line in 29 minutes 24.5 seconds. Erick Kiptanui settled for third position.
Strong showing by the team in a competitive 2021 Bahrain #HalfMarathon — Philemon Kiplimo wins on a windy night / Collins Koros is 2nd / Sheila Chepkirui makes the podium as 3rd / Irine Cheptai in 4th / Josphat Tanui in 12th. #sports #athletics @adidasrunning @one4onesports pic.twitter.com/HcOWL0YbPR
— Ikaika Sports (@IkaikaSports) December 12, 2021
The women's race in 2021 saw Hellen Obiri reclaim the title at the competition held at Moi Airbase.
Obiri who had lost her title in 2020 to Sheila Chepkurui due to a nagging injury ,took charge of the race from the onset. The World 5000m champion controlled the leading pack, that comprised of Joyce Chepkemoi, Chepkurui , Nesphine Chepleting and Irene Kamais.
Obiri overpowered Chepkemoi and Chepkurui in the last lap to cross the line first in 33 minutes 25.1 seconds. Chepkemoi came in second while Chepkurui completed the podium dash.
Chepleting and Kamais finished fourth and fifth respectively.
