Ngetich cruises back to back victory at Sirikwa classic

 Reigning world cross country champion Agnes Jebet Ng'etich delivered a masterclass performance to successfully defend her title at the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country in Lobo Village.

Ng’etich, who has been in sensational form, clocked 32:28 to comfortably seal victory in front of an electric home crowd.

Speaking after the race, the world champion credited the familiar conditions and overwhelming fan support for powering her to victory.

“Just like last time, the climate was the same and I loved the atmosphere. Everyone was cheering me on and it gave me the motivation to continue running. I was not feeling lonely because the fans were in every corner,” she said.

The victory adds to what has been a glittering run for Ng’etich, who recently clinched gold at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships — a medal she says had been long overdue.

“I had waited for that medal for long and I appreciate that a lot. Cross country is something I’ve loved since I was young,” she noted.

Despite her dominant display, the 22-year-old revealed she is yet to decide on her next competition.

“I don’t have any program at the moment and will speak to my coach to know the way forward,” she added.

In the women’s race, Mercy Chepkemoi finished second in 33:42, while Catherine Reline sealed the podium places in 33:51.

Chepkemoi, who trains at Tiloa Training Camp, expressed admiration for Ng’etich’s consistency and dominance.

“Following Agnes Ng’etich has been amazing because she is the world record holder and I want her to continue motivating me. I will now shift focus to the track events,” she said.

Ng’etich’s latest triumph once again underlines her growing stature as one of Kenya’s brightest long-distance stars.