CHEPKUONY, CHEPKORIR SHINE BRIGHT AT STANDARD CHATTERD MARATHON

A thrilling battle of willpower and endurance took place at the 22nd Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, with Bernard Chepkwony and Hellen Chepkorir coming out on top in the men's and ladies' full marathon categories, respectively, while John Wambua stole the hearts of many as he swept the 21km wheelchair event.
‎The event, which took place on Sunday, October 26, drew a record 32,000 athletes, including more than 200 top runners, to transform Nairobi streets into a festival of sporting prowess and the human spirit.
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‎John Wambua won the 21km wheelchair race, thanks to his training and the blessings of God.
I trained really well and was looking to finish second or first, but through the grace of God and perseverance, I emerged victorious," a sobbing Wambua said, adding that his next target is to participate in the London Marathon
‎In men's full marathon, Bernard Chepkwony dominated at the top in 2:11:01, taking an astounding comeback on Kenyan roads. His strength and determination towered above pack leaders Silas Chesang and Donald Kimaru.
‎"I've been training well and I'm happy to have come here and emerge victorious. I ensured that when I get here, I do not leave with anything but the victory," Chepkwony said after crossing the finish line.

‎Alex Saekwo came in second at 2:11:26, with Ezekiel Omullo Kemboi finishing third at 2:11:40, later admitting that the race was tough due to adverse weather conditions along Ngong Road.

‎"The race was not that easy, but I'm happy to finish in the top three. I'll train more for the next year's races," he said.

‎Debutant Hellen Chepkorir dominated the women's marathon, finishing at 2:27:17 to take her first-ever 42km race.
‎"It was my first run of the marathon, and I'm happy to win. I had trained well, kept eyes on the ball, and followed the pacers — that was my game plan," Chepkorir stated after her winning finish.
Naomy Chepkorir placed second at 2:27:37, while Scholastica Jepkemboi placed third at 2:29:18.

‎In the 21km event among men, Joshua Githuku won the title with 1:02:35, while Nahashon Kipsang placed second at 1:03:31 and Gilbert Koririn at 1:03:34.
‎"It was not an easy race, but the win gives me a boost to perform better and look at international races," said Githuku, with Kipsang further adding that "the undulating course affected him," promising to improve next time.

‎Women half marathon saw Karen Wainaina register her mark debut, winning in 1:10:40, with Fridah Rerimoi placing second in 1:14:23 and Winny Chebet third in 1:15:21
With over 32,000 competitors and 200 global elite runners, Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon continues dominating Africa's leading road races.