Reline claims top honors in 2024 Kapsowar Girls Run

2023 half marathon bronze medallist Catherine Reline defied all odds to emerge victorious in the 2024 Kapsowar Girls 21km contest held on Saturday in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The race started at Chebiemit Centre through Chebara Centre, Marakwet Boys, Cheptongei, Kipkunur Forest, Kapsowar Market, and back to the school compound.

Reline showcased zeal and resilience to complete the course in 71:40:0.

It is also worth noting that she was coming off a disappointing seventh-place finish in the 10,000m at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon.

What made the competition even stiff was the presence of former Frankfurt Marathon champion Valary Aiyabei, who was making a comeback after a maternity break. She followed closely to complete the course in 71:56:4.

Naomi Jebet sealed the podium after running in 72:04:6.

Speaking after the win, Reline noted that she did not expect the win, as she was using the race to gauge her form following her disappointing performance in Eugene. She has now shifted focus to the Copenhagen Half Marathon slated for September.

"The tough course has prepared me well for the upcoming season," she offered.

In the men’s half marathon, James Kipkoech was in a class of his own, finishing first with a time of 62:02.39.

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Kipkoech was coming off a doping ban and the victory was a major triumph for him.

The new kid on the block Kalibus Lomwai finished second in 1:03:31, followed by Abraham Kiptum in third at 1:03:40.

Speaking after the win, Kipkoech noted that he was pleased with how his body was responding and he was eyeing more success.

"The race was tough in the first 10km, but my body responded well after that. I'm happy to have won this time," he said.

The competition attracted notable athletes and aimed to raise funds for needy students at the National School in Marakwet West.

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Two-time Boston Marathon champion Evans Chebet was among the world-class athletes cheering on the participants.

This year's edition of the Moi Kapsowar Girls Charity and Conservation race event was upgraded to a 21km contest from the previous 10km race.

Additionally, the event included junior men’s 8km and women’s 5km races.

Selected Results:

Men’s 21km:

James Kipkoech – 1:02:39

Kalibus Lomwai – 1:03:31

Abraham Kiptum – 1:03:40

Kiprono Kipyegon – 1:04:23

Enos Kales – 1:04:38

Abraham Kipyatich – 1:04:44

Women’s 21km:

Catherine Reline – 1:11:40

Valary Aiyabei – 1:11:56

Naomy Jebet – 1:12:00

Viola Chemos – 1:12:46

Glorious Jepkurui – 1:13:10

Joyce Tele – 1:13:41