Mountain running: Masai and Chebet reign supreme in Kapchorwa

In the mountainous region of Kapchorwa, the 14th edition of the National Mountain Running Championships unfolded on Saturday, October 26, with thrilling energy as over 200 athletes competed across the rugged terrains.

The event marked an unexpected opportunity for new champions to shine, with several elite runners supporting from the sidelines while preparing for other competitions.

Among the spectators were renowned athletes Jacob Kiplimo and Peruth Chemutai, whose encouraging presence drove participants through the challenging, hilly course.

Coach Benjamin Njia and singer William Cheptoek entertaining fans and athletes after the Mountain Running Championships at Teryet

Senior athletes competed in a 12 km race, while juniors took on an 8 km course, traversing the hilly areas of Kapchorwa to finish at the Teryet High Altitude Centre. Isaac Masai rose above the pack in the men’s senior category, his technical prowess evident in the 12 km race that crowned him the new champion. As he crossed the finish line, cheers erupted from the crowd, honoring his victory and resilience. Masai posted a time of 39:54.6.

In the women’s senior category, Saibi Chebet, representing the Prisons Athletics Club, delivered a remarkable performance, finishing the race in 49:55.24.

She clinched the championship by overcoming Patricia Chepkwemoi from the Police Athletics Club. Chebet, known for her dedicated approach, attributed her victory to the relentless training and focus she had committed to in preparation.

"I trained so hard with the hope of attaining today’s victory. I am grateful to be the champion and remain focused, hoping that I will make it to the World Mountain Running Championships next year," she shared with determination.

Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) vice president technical, Benjamin Njia, lauded the event’s success, emphasizing that this year's championships would set the groundwork for a highly competitive qualifier event in the following year, as Uganda plans to assemble a strong team for the World Mountain Running Championships. "This year, we focused on building enthusiasm; next year, we aim for a more advanced track and hope to field a robust team for the world stage," Njia commented.

Meanwhile, Peruth Chemutai, the 3000m steeplechase silver medalist, is channeling her success towards inspiring a new wave of female athletes. Recognizing that her athletic journey will one day end, Chemutai has taken up the mantle of mentorship.

“Being a star alone is not enough,” Chemutai explained. "If we have more female athletes in the 3000m steeplechase, we can secure more medals even after I retire. I want to see continuity, and I believe that with dedication, they will follow in my footsteps with ease."

Chemutai hopes to mentor at least four female athletes, helping them follow in her footsteps. Achieving this would allow her to retire as a fulfilled athlete, knowing she has inspired a lasting legacy.

With elite athletes like Peruth Chemutai mentoring the next generation and officials preparing for future global challenges, Uganda's mountain running scene is poised for even greater accomplishments. This year’s event not only celebrated athletic prowess but also inspired a new wave of passion, determination, and dreams among the athletes who will carry the torch forward.