Beatrice Chepkoech opens season with striking win in Netherlands

ATHLETICS Beatrice Chepkoech opens season with striking win in Netherlands

Abigael Wafula 20:07 - 19.11.2023

Beatrice Chepkoech announced her return with a commanding win in the Zevenheuvelenloop 15km race in Nijmegen, Netherlands.

Reigning world 3000m Steeplechase world record holder Beatrice Chepkoech oozed class as she took top honours at the Zevenheuvelenloop 15km race in Nijmegen, Netherlands.

Chepkoech started off the race at a rather slow pace but picked up momentum and was a solo runner for the better part of the race. She clocked 47.12 minutes to cross the finish line first.

Her closest challenger, Kenyan-born Israeli Lonah Salpeter finished a distant second in 47.55 minutes.

In a post-race interview, Chepkoech explained that she only trained for one month and was not expecting to claim top honours in the race.

“This is my first race of the season and I’m happy. I had only trained for one month and a win was not in my plans. I received the information about racing here a bit late,” she said.

Follow the Pulse Sports Kenya WhatsApp Channel for more news.

Chebet has struggled with injuries in the recent past and she noted that she is now fit and ready to rumble.

Last season, she bagged the silver medal at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, finishing behind on form Winfred Yavi. She also finished second at the Diamond League Meeting final, the Prefontaine Classic.

With the Olympic Games coming up next year, she will be hoping to make an impact and return to winning ways fully.

Meanwhile, the men’s race was dominated by Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo who equaled the 15km world record. He won the race in 41.05 minutes.

In addition to the race, recreational runners also received ample attention and the National Championship Running Blind was followed.