The lush green tea fields of Kericho County buzzed with excitement as Betika hosted a successful cross-country race yesterday. The event drew over 800 participants, including both amateur and professional athletes, who competed across the county’s iconic tea farms.
In the men’s 10-kilometer race, 36-year-old Vincent Kibet Langat claimed a thrilling victory with a phenomenal time of 30 minutes and 4 seconds, leaving the crowd roaring with delight. In the women’s category, 27-year-old Sheila Chelangat showcased her relentless determination, finishing first with a time of 33 minutes and 18 seconds. Both winners were awarded KES 150,000 for their stellar performances.
Speaking after his victory, Langat expressed his joy:
“This was one of the toughest courses I’ve run, but the energy from the crowd and the beauty of the Kericho landscape kept me going. I’m truly honored to have won this race.”
Chelangat, equally thrilled, shared her thoughts:
“It was a great experience running here in Kericho. The terrain was challenging, but it pushed me to give my best. I’m grateful to the organizers for such a fantastic race and for supporting athletes like us.”
Cash Prizes for Top Finishers
Alongside the winners, the second and third place finishers in both categories were awarded KES 100,000 and KES 75,000, respectively.
In a special recognition of senior athletes, Betika also hosted a 4-kilometer race for athletes aged 50 and above. In the men’s masters category, Francis Bowen finished with a time of 12 minutes and 55 seconds, while in the women’s category, Joyce Kirui crossed the line in 8 minutes. Both senior athletes received KES 30,000 for their remarkable efforts.
Reflecting on her achievement, Joyce Kirui commented:
“It feels amazing to still be out here, running alongside younger athletes. Age is nothing but a number; it’s the fire in your spirit and the dedication in your training that truly matters. I am deeply grateful to the event organizers for honoring senior athletes like me, for recognizing the passion we carry, and for giving us this platform to showcase our abilities.”
Betika’s Commitment to Sports Development
Betika Brand Manager Eric Mwiti expressed the company’s commitment to nurturing sports at all levels:
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming success of this cross-country event. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated—this achievement is just the beginning of even greater things to come for our brand. It’s inspiring to see senior athletes like Francis and Joyce perform so well. They are a testament to the power of perseverance and lifelong fitness. As a sports community, we must do more to recognize and support senior athletes, providing platforms for them to thrive.”
Mwiti also highlighted the importance of integrity in sports, noting the presence of the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya at the event:
“This collaboration is a clear statement of our dedication to safeguarding the spirit of competition and supporting the development of a transparent and clean sporting environment.”
The event was a resounding success, bringing together athletes from across the country and celebrating both youth and senior athleticism in a thrilling display of endurance and passion.
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