Resilience of old and emergence of new stars witnessed at the Betika Bingwafest track meet in Eldoret

The winners received an early Christmas gift, with exciting prizes up for grabs in races ranging from 100m to 10,000m. The focus was primarily on the longer track distances to attract top runners from the region. Athletes, both seasoned and new talents, took to the track to display their running prowess over the two-day event that commenced on Thursday, December 19th, and concluded on Friday, December 20th.

Christine Njoki emerged victorious in the women’s 10,000m race, a highly competitive event on the second day, breaking away from a leading trio in the final stages. Mercy Cherono, a former 5000m world silver medalist and Commonwealth Games Champion, finished second after placing second in the 5000m race the previous day.

“I am getting ready to participate in track events next year. This is my first time on the track, so I am yet to decide between the 5000m and the 10,000m as I aim to qualify for the Tokyo World Championships team. Running alongside Mercy Cherono today has boosted my confidence in my potential on the track,” Njoki expressed.

The 25-year-old athlete, under coach Ben Maiyo at Newton Management, mentioned that her racing schedule for next year might kick off early with the Valencia 10K in January.

In the men’s 10,000m race, Ernest Kimutai from Nakuru triumphed in a field occupied by many competitors, finishing in 29:12.4. Vincent Towett (29:13.2) and Keneth Kiprono (29:15.1) followed closely behind.

The men’s 5000m races on the second day witnessed new rising stars showcasing their potential. Ezekiel Ruto, under the guidance of coach Ian at St. Patrick’s Iten, secured victory by creating a significant lead in the final 1000m of his heat, clocking in at 13:57.5. This was one second faster than the impressive solo run by Felix Kibet in the initial heat.

Mirriam Cherop, a member of the quartet that clinched victory in the mixed relay at the 2023 World Cross Country Championships and a silver medalist at the 2018 World U20 Championships, was the standout performer of the event, triumphing in both the women’s 800m and 1500m races with remarkable performances.

Noah Kibet, the 2022 world indoor silver medalist, showcased his form by winning his heat in the men’s 800m race after facing disappointment in the men’s 1500m heats on the first day. This victory reinforces his confidence as he prepares to start his World Athletics Indoor Series season.

Olympic 800-meter Champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi participated in the 4 x 400-meter relay, helping his team improve from 5th to 4th in his anchor leg.

Sarah Moraa, the reigning 800m World U20 and African champion, competed in the women’s 1500m race, stating that she had not yet commenced her intensive track training and was there just for enjoyment.