Mathew Kipkoech Targets Kericho Cross Country Victory as Chebor, Kenei Lead Strong Women’s Field in KSh1.1 Million Betika Showdown
Source: Kenya Today
Summary
Kenya's athletics spotlight will turn to Kericho this Saturday, October 10, 2026, as the fifth edition of the Betika Cross Country brings together established distance runners and emerging talent competing for more than KSh1.1 million in prize money at Kericho Teachers Training College. Among the athletes expected to attract attention is 21-year-old Mathew Kipkoech Kipruto, who returns to the competition determined to improve on his third-place finish in last year's Senior Men's 10km race. The women's competition will feature a strong field led by Maurine Jepkoech Chebor and Brenda Jepchumba Kenei, alongside returning podium finishers Abigael Chepkoech and Diana Chepkemoi. The competition is expected to provide another platform for Kenyan athletes to showcase their abilities, with Betika continuing its support for grassroots athletics through the Betika na Community initiative. Mathew Kipkoech Returns With His Eyes on the Title Kipkoech was among the standout performers during the 2025 edition, finishing third in the men's 10km race after clocking 29:47.88. He crossed the finish line behind champion Victor Kimosop and runner-up Charles Kakuri, gaining valuable experience on a course he will tackle again this weekend. The 21-year-old has since strengthened his credentials with another impressive performance at the 2026 Betika BingwaFest National...