Kapsabet Half Marathon Raises the Bar as Governor Sang Pledges Full Marathon Upgrade
Third edition delivers strong competition and reinforces clean sport message
More than 1,000 athletes participated in the third edition of the Kapsabet Half Marathon held along the Nandi Hills–Kapsabet route.
The race was staged under cool morning conditions, with runners navigating a challenging 21-kilometre course marked by rolling terrain before finishing at the Eliud Kipchoge Sports Complex.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang used the event to announce plans to upgrade the race into a full marathon in its fourth edition next year.
“Congratulations to all the winners and participants of the Kapsabet Half Marathon held today,” said Sang.
“This remarkable event continues to grow as a platform that nurtures athletic talent while promoting a powerful message of clean and responsible living.”
The race was held under the theme “No Alcohol, No Drugs, No Limits,” with organizers emphasizing discipline, healthy lifestyles and anti-doping awareness among young athletes.
Jelimo and Korir Take Top Honors in 21km
She held off Drorren Cherop, who clocked 1:11:10 to take second place. Irene Kamais completed the podium in 1:12:47.
The men’s race was tightly contested, with a close finish separating the top three runners.
Denis Kipkirui Korir won the race in 1:12:22. Vincent Towett followed in 1:12:32, while Abraham Kiptum finished third in 1:12:37.
The narrow margins highlighted the level of competition, with athletes maintaining a strong pace throughout the race.
Cheptek and Ruto Dominate 10km Races
In the women’s 10km race, Diana Cheptek delivered a commanding performance to win in 32:50.
She was followed by Irene Chepkorio, who finished second in 33:15. Dorothy Chelangat placed third in 33:48.
The men’s 10km race also saw strong competition from the start.
Timothy Ruto emerged the winner after clocking 28:16. Noah Kiplagat Chumba finished second in 28:29, while Cornelius Kibet secured third place in 28:32.
The 10km races attracted a mix of emerging and experienced athletes, further underlining the event’s role in talent development.
Clean Sport Message and Future Plans
Organizers said the race continues to grow as a platform for promoting clean sport and community engagement.
Sang reiterated the county’s commitment to supporting athletics and addressing challenges such as substance abuse among young people.
“As a county, we remain steadfast in championing clean sport, advocating against substance abuse and promoting sustainable environmental practices,” he said.
“Through such initiatives, we are shaping a generation that values integrity, wellness and limitless potential both on and off the track.”
Participants and coaches praised the organization of the race and the competitive field.
The planned upgrade to a full marathon is expected to elevate the status of the event and attract more elite athletes in future editions.
With increasing participation and institutional support, the Kapsabet Half Marathon is steadily establishing itself as a key race in Kenya’s athletics calendar, while reinforcing Nandi County’s reputation as a hub for long-distance running talent.