MBOGO RULES LEWA MARATHON: Lodepa wins women’s race as Mbithi and Karimi run away with 21km titles

Lewa marathon
Lewa Marathon men winner Elijah Mbogo. PHOTO: DENNIS OKEYO

Elijah Mbogo surged to the lead with 15km to go to win the men’s 42km as Fridah Lodepa registered her hat-trick of wins at the 16th edition of Safaricom Lewa Marathon yesterday.

Having been second best at the three previous attempts at this event, 28-year-old Mbogo made his calculations well in the final kilometres taking control of the race to win in 2:20.18, beating Moses Wamaitha (2:23.2) to second place while Cyprian Kiogora was third in 2:24.54.

“I have tried to win this race three times previously, but on both occasion I have managed second place. This year I had stepped up my training with a lot of hill run and speed and it has paid off today," said a delighted Embu-based Mbogo.

In the women’s race, Lodepa, a former Kuala Lumpur marathon champion, won her third consecutive title by stopping the clock in 2:50.26 ahead of Monica Muthoni who timed 2:52.58.

“I am pretty happy and proud with my performance, I think Lewa loves me and animals around the conservancy motivate me a lot.

I have mastered this course and will be back to again next year for a another podium finish,” said the 34-year-old.

In the half-marathon category, Robert Mbithii clocked 1:04:59 to beat his closest challenger Morris Munene (1:05.41) while the experienced road racer Nicholas Kamakya (1:05.59) settled for the third position.

The race was tough for everybody, a very strong field and the heat was much like last year. I am very satisfied with my victory,” Mbithii said. In the women race, Lucy Karimi won after clocking 1:16.23. Pauline Wanjiku (1:17.03) was second and Perendis Lepakana timed 1:17.53 for third position.

The event was graced by US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec and Safaricom chairman Nicholas Nganga who was pleased with the turnout and support arguing that the run which has so far contributed Sh300million has benefited thousands of Kenyans.