Benson Loshareng wins Lewa Marathon

By Oscar Pilipili

Benson Loshareng, 20, from Kapenguria is the winner of men’s 42km race at this year’s Safaricom Lewa Marathon.

The winner, who was running his debut marathon, clocked 2:20.23 to pocket Sh150,000 plus 42-inch LG LCD television set, courtesy of LG Electronics.

Loshareng not only won the race but also improved on the previous time of 2:24.16 recorded by Benson Kaptikou last year. Titus Kariuki crossed the line second and timed 2:22.04, with Stephen Kariuki (2:23.24), Joseph Ouko (2:27.38) and Mark Macharia (2:27.56) finishing third, fourth and fifth. The women’s honours in the 42km race went to Zeddy Rere, who completed the dirt and winding course of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in 2:50.16. Rere also pocked Sh150,000 and 42-inch LG LCD television set.
Emily Chepkorir came second in 2:53.46, followed by Ruth Mbogo (3:01.41), Dorice Todopus (3:05.50) and Eunice Lelei (3:07.36). Besides contributing towards prizes in the race, LG Electronics set up giant screens within the Conservancy to ensure football fans catch live action of FIFA World Cup from South Africa.

Whereas most athletes conceded that the course was a big challenge, Loshareng said it really favoured him during the race. Bernard Mutwiri of Karimba Primary improved from fourth position last year to win children’s 5km race sponsored by Glaxo Smithkline Kenya in 20.41.

Lucozade Brand Manager Liz Gichagi said the company is committed to supporting talent development in the country. Mutwiri’s school mate, David Mutuma, came second in 20.52 followed by Elijah Mutuma of Munanda Primary (20.54), James Lenderop (21.01), and Joseph Gitonga both of Lewa Primary (21.03).

This year’s event saw the introduction of wheelchair race, where lone athlete Jennifer Warren featured in the 21km race.