Wambua, Emaiyo clinch Hope for Future run titles

Peter Wambua and Gladys Emaiyo are the new champions of the Hope for the Future Run 7.5km road race organised by world record holder Henry Wanyoike’s Foundation that attracted 15,000 participants on Saturday.

Wambua who trains in Limuru clocked 22:54 for the men’s victory in the 10th edition of the event ahead of Ngong-based Patrick Muthuga (22:57) with George Waiyaki (23:06) coming home further in third.

“It was very difficult to keep up with the pace of my fellow athletes, but somehow I gained momentum just few kilometres to finish line,” the winner who is now focused on the Safaricom Lewa Marathon said.

Francis Kamau (23:31) and William Morwabe (23:48) rounded the top five.

In the senior women’s race, Emaiyo who trains in Ngong was the winner, clocking 27:37, followed closely by Peninah Kigen (27:48) and Naomi Maiyo (28:03) from Eldoret in a tight contest for the honours.

Emaiyo, 21, told of the challenges she faced and she was almost giving up due to a mix up with officials where she did know the race had already started

“It was a tough course but am happy I have won,” she added.

Sheila Kosgei (28:29) and Hellen Wanjiku (28:32) occupied the next two finishing positions.

Emaiyo says she gets her inspiration from former London Marathon champion Mary Keitany and Eliud Kipchoge who won the men’s race at the British capital for the second year in a row in April.

Winners took home Ksh15,000 with runners-up and third placed finishers pocketing Ksh10,000 and Ksh5,000.

“The run has been made possible by the goodwill of the volunteers who sacrifice their time, energy and funds for a worthy cause,” Wanyoike remarked.

This year’s event was organized into five categories: Seniors 7.5km men and women, Veterans 3km, Juniors 7.5km, Physically Challenged (wheelchairs) 7.5km and Children (6-12 years) 3km.

US Ambassador to Kenya, Robert Godec was the chief guest with local politicians, Kiambu County Deputy Governor, Gerald Githinji and Kabete MP, Ferdinand Waititu also present.

“Indeed this is a momentous occasion seeing this race marking ten years since the Run was established,” the American envoy stated.