Nyaga issues come-get-me plea after Police victory

Eastern Athletics region's Caroline Nyaga was, on Friday 7 January, crowned the Kenya Police Service (KPS) Cross Country women's champion at the event held at the Ngong Racecourse, breaking a seven-year duck. 

After her victory, the athlete believes doors for management, kitting partners and more will open following what was her first victory since 2015 with the service.

In what turned to be a two-horse race between Nyaga and her Nairobi counterpart Nelly Cheptoo, the farmer's finishing kick proved the difference as she went ahead in the last 200m and held on for a six-second victory, clocking 35:53.44 ahead of Cheptoo's 35:58.54. 

"I had to exercise patience and discipline knowing that my time would come. I have never finished on the podium since I joined Kenya Police in 2015 so this win means a lot to me.

I have to thank my coach Bruce Lati who discovered my talent when I was in form four back in 2014 at Kiriari Secondary School. He has held my hand through the journey alongside Police.

With this victory, I'm hoping it will be the beginning of a great season for me even as I hope to secure a good management," said Nyaga in a post-race interview. 

Meanwhile, World 10km record holder Rhonex Kipruto pipped Michael Kibet in the final loop to win the men's race in 30:28.57 minutes and end three-time world cross country champion Geoffrey Kamworor's dominance at the police event. 

Kibet settled for second place in 30:28.9 with Josphat Kiprotich completing the podium places in 30:46.8. 

Kamworor was not present to defend his title for a record ninth time as he is reported to have picked a slight groin strain while in training this week.