Jepkosgei eyes glory at Ras Al Khaimah half marathon

Kenya's Joyciline Jepkosgei crosses the line to win a past race. [FILE]

All eyes will be on 2021 London Marathon champion Joyciline Jepkosgei and two-time Zwolle 21km champion Isaiah Lasoi as they lead a stellar cast in Saturday's Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon.

They are part of a strong field setting their eyes on glorious victories in the 18th edition of a half marathon that numerous stars have used to launch gigantic ambitions.

While a strong competition from Ejgayehu Taye, a 5,000m and 10,000m specialist from Ethiopia is a factor in the women's battle for honors, Jepkosgei brings to the start line a wealth of experience.

Jepkosgei, a former New York City Marathon winner and Lasoi will be stomping a scenic course where a quartet of stars have previously smashed world records.

Since the inaugural edition in 2007, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, which is staged around the spectacular sea-side route on the iconic Al Marjan Island, has joined the league of fastest 21km courses.

In the last decade, Kenyan long distance greats, Mary Keitany and Peres Jepchirchir have shattered records in Ras Al Khaimah.

Ethiopia's Ababel Yeshaneh is also among record-breakers who have written their histories on the Ras Al Khaimah's 21km course.

Jepkosgei, a military woman, is taking to Ras Al Khaimah an impressive CV in road racing.

She tasted the sweetness of athletics glory and breakthroughs from 2017.