Bett and Chepkurui win Betika Cross Country in Kericho

Edwin Kiplangat Bett and Cynthia Chepkurui claimed victory in the fifth Betika Cross Country race, which took place in Kericho on Saturday, October 10. Bett won the men's competition with a time of 29:22, narrowly edging out Wesley Kipkemoi, who finished with a time of 29:23. Chepkurui secured the women's title with a time of 33:02, outpacing Emmaculate Jepkosgei (33:06) and Brenda Jepchumba Kenei (33:07).

The race saw a record-breaking participation, with over 1,000 athletes competing. Bett expressed his satisfaction, stating he aimed for a top-three finish and was pleased with his performance. Chepkurui, who had previously finished fourth in the women's U20 race at the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Florida, was delighted to take the title and now plans to focus on improving her speed before the Athletics Kenya Cross Country Series.

Eric Mwiti, Betika's Head of Brand, noted the event's record turnout, highlighting the competition's growth and Betika's commitment to supporting athletics in Kenya. He also expressed pride in Betika's continued partnership with Athletics Kenya, which will support athletes and strengthen structures as the country prepares for the 2028 Olympic Games and the 2029 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi.

Both medalists earned prize money: Bett received Ksh 150,000, Chepkurui Ksh 150,000, Kipkemoi Ksh 100,000, Jepkosgei Ksh 100,000, Kiprop Ksh 75,000, and Kenei Ksh 75,000.