Ngetich shocks Kipyegon as Ebenyo triumphs at Sirikwa Classic

The 2025 Sirikwa Classic World Cross Tour ended with strong points dominated by rare shows of resilience at the Lobo Village in Uasin Gishu.

A debate on who would get a red carpet reception to the top spot on the senior women’s podium between record breakers Faith Kipyegon and Agnes jebet Ngetich was settled.

The senior women’s race kicked off with a promise of fireworks, and Ngetich, the 10km world record holder took the crown after unleashing a blistering pace from gun to finish.

Now, all eyes will be on Ngetich as the focus shifts to the track ahead of the 2025 Tokyo World Championships in September after missing out on team Kenya to last year’s Olympics in Paris.

From the first loop, Ngetich who was yearning for a duel with Kipyegon, a star who inspired her into running, took firm control of the lead and by the third lap she had widened the lead by over 100m.

Kipegon bowed out of the fourth lap as Ngetich weathered a windy and hot afternoon at the Lobo Village.

She produced a spectacular sprint at the closing to cut the tape in 32:42, denying athletics enthusiasts a much-awaited close contest.

Janeth Chepngetich came in a distant second in 33:52 while Miriam Chebet who finished the women’s senior race third, timed 34:09.

“The weather was hot, windy and humidity was high but I managed to run the race comfortably. I am happy with the win and looking forward to a good season,” Ngetich said after the victory.

She said she was elated about the honour of competing with Kipyegon at the world cross-country tour.

“It was my first time running with Faith. She is a queen and I respect her. She is like a mentor and a mother to me and I was honoured to compete with her,” the champion said.

The men’s race turned out to be a spectacular contest, with world 10,000m silver medallist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo defending his 2023 title in style.

Ebenyo outpaced Gideon Kipkertich to win the 10km senior men’s race in 29:57.

Kipkertich followed in 30:07 as Olympian Nicholas Kipkorir (30:15) closed the podium.

Ebenyo, a world half marathon silver medallist said he has set his sights on the 2025 Seoul marathon set for March 16.

“I am happy to have defended my title and ended the cross-country season with victory,” he said after the win.

But the junior men’s 8km clash produced fireworks.

Kevin Kiprop, the winner of Chepsaita Cross Country and National Cross Country races fired another warning shot, clinching the title in an impressive 24:24.

Frankline Chebet Kibet (24:27) and Festus Kimorwo (24:27) settled for second and third places respectively.

“Winning at Iten gave me confidence in my training program because there were very many talented athletes,” Kiprop said.