Loice Chemnung was in imperious form on Day Two of the Athletics Kenya National Championships/Commonwealth Games trials, successfully defending her women’s 10,000m title after producing another commanding display over the 25-lap contest.
The seasoned distance runner powered to victory in 31:46.90, holding off a spirited challenge from African Championships gold medallist Diana Wanza, who crossed the line second in 31:56.80.
Selah Busienei completed the podium after clocking 32:01.85.
For Chemnung, it was a successful title defence and another reminder of her enduring pedigree on the domestic circuit.
”I am very happy to defend my title,” she said.
The 29-year-old had also struck gold at last year’s national showpiece, winning in 31:39.09 ahead of Cintia Chepng’eno (32:22.44), with Rebecca Mwangi completing the podium in 32:22.85.
Despite retaining her crown, Chemnung remains undecided on whether she will line up at the Commonwealth Games, saying the decision will be made after consultations with her coach.
“I don’t know yet if I will go for the Commonwealth Games. I’ll sit down with my coach to plan the way forward,” she said.
The Boston Marathon runner-up revealed that her immediate focus could shift to the roads, with the Chicago Marathon on October 11 firmly on her radar.
“I am preparing for the Chicago Marathon. The preparations for a marathon are intense and require a lot of time.”
Chemnung also admitted that her build-up to the national championships had not been ideal, making the victory even more satisfying.
”I had not prepared well for these trials, but I thank God I was able to win. Defending a national title is not easy.”
Meanwhile, Wanza, fresh from clinching African Championships gold over the distance in Ghana, was pleased to secure a podium finish at the national championships.
”Going to Ghana and winning a medal gave me confidence coming into these championships,” she said.
After enduring a difficult outing at last year’s national championships, Wanza was delighted to bounce back in style and reaffirm her status among the country’s leading distance runners.
“I am so happy with the results. Last year at the nationals, I did not have the experience. I know more good things are coming.”
At last year’s championships, Wanza featured in the 5,000m, finishing ninth after clocking 16:03.23.
She added that the stern test provided by Chemnung was exactly the kind of competition she needed as she continues to fine-tune her preparations.
”I wanted that competition to gauge my strength. I hope to sit down with my coach to fix my weakness.”
As she sets her sights on the Commonwealth Games, Wanza is confident she has what it takes to challenge for a place on the podium.
”The target is to go to Glasgow and come back with a medal.”
