Nyaga wins Kenya Police Cross Country women's title

Eastern's Carolyne Nyaga is the new Kenya Police Service Cross Country women's 10km champion.

The 28-year-old Nyaga, who finished fifth last year, had her act in place this time around, beating Nelly Cheptoo of Nairobi after a thrilling exchange to win in 35 minutes and 53.44 seconds in an event held on Friday at the Ngong Racecourse.

The race turned into a two-horse battle in the last four kilometres with Nyaga and Cheptoo tearing each other.

However, its Nyaga, who had the final laugh after she waited until the last 200m to bolt out for victory.

Cheptoo, who was competing for the first time since 2018, settled second in 35:58.54 as Rift Valley's Janet Ruguru come in third in 36:04.43.

"It's all about patience and discipline. I have never finished in top three since I joined Kenya Police in 2015. It's a great feeling this morning," said Nyaga, who gave credit to her coach Bruce Lati for her victory.

"It's Lati who discovered my talent when I was in form four back in 2014 at Kiriari Secondary School," said Nyaga, who now hopes her victory will help secure a good management and kitting firm.

"The only support have is from Kenya Police and my coach Lati," said Nyaga, a fifth place finisher in 10,000m at the 2019 African Games.

Defending champion Sheila Chelangat did not participate.

Selected results

1.Caroline Nyaga (Eastern) 35:52.6

2.Nelly Cheptoo (Nairobi) 35:58.6

3.Jane Ruguru (RVP) 36:04.5

4.Mercy Cherono (RVP) 36:05.8

5.Margaret Wangare (Coast) 36:08.2

6.Faith Kimutai (RVP) 36:12.2