Mneria, Wanjiru clinch Prisons Cross Country titles

Charles Mneria and Rosemary Wanjiru stormed to easy victories in the men’s and women’s 10km races at the Kenya Prisons Cross Country championships held Saturday at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru.

Mneria not only successfully defended his title as he also notched a third consecutive victory to stamp his authority over the distance.

In dry and sunny conditions Mneria signaled his intention to retain his title when he surged clear of his compatriots at the 4km mark to cross the finish line in 30:00.15.

Boaz Kiprugut (30:42.63) and Wilfred Kimitei (30:44.36) finished second and third respectively while Patrick Kipngeno placed fourth in 30:55.08

“Although it was my intention to surge forward early in the race, it has not been easy since everybody also came to win as well,” said Mneria.

He said he is now looking forward to a competitive race at the national championships slated for next month in Kisii which will double as trials for Africa Cross Country championships scheduled for Lome, Togo.

“My aim is to compete at the Africa Cross before I switch my focus to the Olympic Games where I am also eyeing a slot in 10,000m,” said the 2016 Africa Cross Country bronze medallist.

In the women’s race, Wanjiru clocked 33:43.53 with Lilian Kasait finishing second in 34:17.01 as Gladys Jerono clocked 35:07:24 to finish third.

Wanjiru who dominated from the gun to tape said she is now gearing to wrestle the national title from Kenya Police as well as lay the ground for the Olympic Games set for the summer.

“My target this year is to participate at the Olympics and I think with proper build in Cross Country I am going to achieve that,” said Wanjiru.

“I think this year we are going to fight hard to win the national title,” she added.

Former champions Alice Aprot (35:55.24) and Loice Chemining (35:58.52) placed fourth and fifth respectively.

Aprot who was making her comeback from maternity break said she was content with the fourth spot as she targets continental championships.

“For me I am happy to finish fourth since it was my first competitive race after such a long period I think I am comfortable. I am looking forward to improving further,” said Aprot.

Summarised results

10km men

1 Charles Mneria 30:00.15
2 Boaz Kiprugut 30:42.63
3 Wilfred Kimitei 30:44.36
4 Patrick Kipngeno 30:55.08
5 Emmanuel Ngatuny 30:59.94
6 Victor Chepkwony 31:05.24

10km women

1 Rosemary Wanjiru 33:43.53
2 Lilian Kasait 34:17.01
3 Gladys Jerono 35:07.24
4 Alice Aprot 35:55.24
5 Loice Chemining 35:58.52
6 Abigael Chelagat 35:14.16