Kariankei, Chepkurui Win Chepsaita Cross Country's U-20 titles

Kakenya crossed the tape in a timing of 25:20 to bag the men's 8km title ahead of Emmanuel Kipchirchir (25:27) and Alex Pelor (25:33) who finished second and third respectively.

The form four student at Chepsaita Secondary school who finished 12th at the National Cross-country championships says he was determined to do well after the national disappointment.

"It has been a long journey, I had to work extra hard in training and although I didn't expect to win I'm proud to take home the crown. I realized this was going to be a fast pace so I had to get it right in my tactical approach," an overjoyed Kakenya said.

The 18-yr old admitted to the course being hard but he was determined to do well. I'm looking forward to continue excelling in major races in the future."

"The course was very hard but I pushed from the beginning to the end. 

Second place Kipchirchir, a student at St. Francis Kimuron in Elgeyo Marakwet, on the other side said the national cross country experience propelled him to a podium finish.

"I've been training hard after the national cross country championships and I was determined to go to the title. I'm happy though for the second place and I'm determined to continue getting even better."

The 15-yr old youngster who looks up to legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge added that he is determined to follow in his footsteps.

Mean while, Chepkurui clocked 21:34 ahead of Mercy Kirwa (21:48) and Fancy Chepkorir (22:07) to take home the girls U 20 6km crown.

Knowing Chepsaita to be a hard course, the Kuresoi-based athlete had to put in hard work in her preparations to reign supreme.

"I feel so proud of the win. I put in a lot of effort to take the crown. I'm hungry to win more."

The 17 year old is now aiming at taking part in next year's Diamond League.

Runner-up Kirwa on the other side who draws inspiration from 5000 and 10000m world and Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet said she's determined to have a breakthrough season in 2026.

The 18-yr old has already tested herself on the national scene after taking part in in Olkalou and Machakos races.