Kipsang, Chebet star at Police Championships

Abel Kipsang claimed a double in the men’s 800m and 1500m at the 11th edition of the National Police Service Athletics Championships that concluded Thursday at the Kasarani Stadium.

Kipsang clocked three minutes, 36.84 seconds to win the 1500m race ahead of former world champion Elijah Manangoi who finished second in 3:38.50

In the 800m race, Kipsang claimed victory in one minute, 48.14 seconds ahead of William Rayan who finished second in 1:48.26 as Jeremiah Mutai  settled for third in 1:49.80

"The race was tough since everyone wanted victory for their regions. I am happy for the victory and my target is to continue improving ahead of the World Championships. My target this year is to make it to the podium," said Kipsang.

Commonwealth Games 5000m champion Beatrice Chebet won the women’s 1500m after clocking four minutes, 07.18 seconds ahead of Brenda Chebet who finished second in 4:09.18 as Caroline Nyaga settled for third in 4:11.66

"It was my first time competing over 1500m and I am happy I achieved my target which was to test my speed in this championship. I am preparing to compete at Oslo Diamond League and this was part of my training. I am happy with my form and my target is to maintain it and remain healthy ahead of the World Championships," said Chebet, the World Cross Country champion.

Meanwhile, Commonwealth Games 10,000m silver medallist Daniel Simiu dominated the men’s 5000m as Commonwealth 800m champion Mary Moraa claimed victory in the women’s 400m race.

"My intention was to run my race and that is why I didn't care on who I was competing against. It was a good race for me and my target is to keep improving in each race as we build up towards the World Championships," said Simiu.

The 2014 Commonwealth Games 3000m steeplechase champion Purity Kirui ran the show in the women's event as she claimed victory in 9:50.39 ahead of Lilian Chebii who finished second in 9:53.64

"It was a good race in which I have also learnt some few mistakes I have to correct especially in the barriers. My target this season is to compete at the World Championships but I know it won't be easy since we have strong ladies like Beatrice Chepkoech, "said Kirui.

Police used the two-day event to pick a team that will compete at the national championships to be held in a fortnight.