Gitonga, Kibet dazzle in Mt Longonot Challenge

Ruth Gitonga made a grand entrance into mountain running in style, clinching victory in the elite 13.5km women’s race at the Mt Longonot Trail Challenge on Saturday.

Gitonga crossed the line in 1:14:50, with Philaris Kisang (1:15:25) and Joyline Chepngeno (1:16:45) completing the podium positions.

The event which drew elite runners to the rugged trails of the Longonot marked Kenya's inaugural Mountain Running World Ranking competition.

Reflecting on her triumph, Gitonga admitted the race was a steep learning curve and rainy weather conditions toughened the course even further.

“The race was tough because it was my first time competing in mountain running, although I have been training for road races but I decided to taste my endurance with this event,” Gitonga said.

“The course was challenging, but I’m thankful to have won despite the rainy conditions.”

Remarkably, Gitonga revealed she had no specific mountain running training, relying instead on her road racing preparation.

“I hadn’t trained for mountain running at all. I entered the race to test my capabilities, and I’m happy with the result,” she said.

Kisang, a member of the Run2gether camp, acknowledged the grueling nature of the course.

“The race had a lot of challenges. I had run the Longonot trail before but not the course which was mapped out today which was more difficult,” she said. She was pleased with her second place finish.

“I am happy with my number two finish. I had trained sufficiently in preparation for the race today,” she added.

Looking ahead, she is aiming for top spot in the World Mountain running season.

“My goal is to take first place in the World mountain running series. This course is similar to the international ones, so I’m optimistic,” she said.

In the men’s race, Timothy Kibet clocked 1:02:04 to claim overall victory followed closely by Saoli Selelo (1:04:05) and Ephantus Njeri (1:04:06).

Kibet, who trains with the Milimani Runners in Elgeyo Marakwet, overcame a mid-race fall to claim the title.

“The course was tough, but the weather was favourable. I didn’t expect to win especially after I fell earlier on in the race. However I got back up and decided to push myself for the win,” he said.

Having recently transitioned from road racing, Kibet is embracing the challenges of mountain running.

“This was my second mountain race since joining the series last month. I’m enjoying the transition from road races to the trails,” he said.

June Chepkemei, CEO of Magical Kenya who attended the event hinted on partnership with Athletics Kenya to ensure the event grows in the country. [Dennis Okeyo]

Men’s results

1. Timothy Kibett 1:02:04
2. Saoli Selelo 1:04:05
3. Ephantus Njeri 1:04:06
4. Cornelius Yatich 1:04:10
5. Kipsang Cheboi 1.04:20

Women’s results

1. Ruth Gitonga 1:14:50
2. Philaris Kisang 1:15:25
3. Joyline Chepngeno 1:16:45
4. Valentine Rutto 1:16:51
5. Gloria Chebet 1:17:38