Ngetich, Nenkampi clinch Stanchart Half Marathon titles

Perin Nenkampi is counting herself lucky after cruising to victory in the 2021 Standard Chartered Half Marathon, her first race since suffering a career threatening injury in March last year. 

Nenkampi clocked 1:12:59 ahead of Abigail Jelimo who was second in 1:13:41 and third place finisher Lilian Jebii who posted 1:14:32 on the clock. 

Nenkampi could not contain her joy after cutting the tape as she disclosed that an injury picked early last year had impeded her from training and competing on the road. 

The athlete who had previously participated in the 10k race of the Nairobi Marathon said the win will lay a solid foundation to her quest to fully to road running. 

"I had been locked out of action since March last year due to an injury. I was patient throughout and followed the doctor's advice and it feels good to be on the podium in my first race after a long absence," she said.

While Nenkampi ruled in the women's category, Nakuru based Vincent Ngetich was crowned the men's champion after clocking 1:01:44.

Ngetich who was making his first appearance in the event finished ahead of Rhonzas Kilimo who posted 1:01:54 on the clock and Peter Kipsirat who timed 1:01:59.

The 25-year old said it was his first time to run the half marathon and remained hopeful of making to the Kenyan cross country team. 

"I had never ran a half marathon race before. I am happy to have won my debut. Since I don't have a coach or a manager who can organize some races for me, I will focus on next year's cross country," he said.

 Meanwhile, Faith Chepkoech was in her class of her in the 10k race as she cut the tape in 33:15. 0 with her closest challenger Dorothy Kipkilach coming in fifteen seconds later.Sharon Jemutai was third after timing 33:31.7.

In the men's category, Geoffrey Kipchumba won in 28:27.2 ahead of Raymond Kipkorir who timed 28:38.8. Patrick Mosin was third in 28:59.4