Martin Kiprotich Magengo retained his senior men’s title, while Chekwemoi Esther Yeko celebrated a breakthrough victory at the 16th National Mountain Running Championships in Kapchorwa over the weekend.
Police Club’s Magengo defended his 12km crown in commanding fashion, clocking 44:25 at the Kiprotich Teryet High Altitude Training Centre after breaking away from the leading pack with 5km remaining.
Prisons’ Kiprotich Levi finished second in 45:03, narrowly ahead of UWA’s Kibet Oscar, who posted 45:11.
Magengo, who won individual silver in the 14km classic race at the 2025 World Mountain Running Championships in Spain, credited his familiarity with the course and favourable weather conditions for his triumph.
Yeko, meanwhile, turned last year’s third-place finish into gold in the women’s 12km race, pulling clear of a seven-runner leading group to win in 53:04.
UPDF’s Mande Ruth (56:06) and Chelangat Ariziki (56:15) completed the podium.
“I am extremely overwhelmed by this victory. Coming from third position last year to winning the title today is a big achievement for me,” Yeko said.
In the junior categories, Sebei College’s Chelimo Edith won the women’s U20 10km in 39:26, while Arua Club swept the men’s 10km podium, led by Sande Rotich in 31:26.
Suuto Jane of Arua and Kween’s Yeko Michael won the women’s and men’s masters 12km titles respectively.
Uganda Athletics offered Shs5.3 million in prize money across the senior, junior and masters categories.
