Kosgei, Mumbua win Tespok Half Marathon titles

Lawi Kosgei and Agnes Mumbua were crowned champions of the inaugural Tespok Autism Half Marathon after claiming victories in the men and women’s races at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday.

Kosgei completed the 21km distance in 1:01:49 ahead of Meshack Leigut (1:01:51) and Victor Chepkwony (1:02:32) who finished second and third respectively.

Mumbua timed 1:10:27 to claim the women’s event with Lillian Chebii (1:10:56) and Beatrice Cheburet (1:10:57) rounding off the top three places.

Kosgei said he felt the victory was a sign of greater things to come in his career after competing in what was only his second half marathon event in the country.

"I’m glad that I emerged the first it gives me motivation to do better in the coming races in future,” he said.

On the hand, Mumbua said she had been confident she would achieve a positive result adding she had been well prepared for the task.

“This win means a lot because even as I was leaving home, I knew I would win based on the training I’ve had and the experience I’ve had in other races I’ve participated in.”

The race was organised by the Technology Service Providers Association of Kenya with the aim of raising awareness towards autism in the country.

Commonwealth champion and African 100m record holder Ferdinand Omanyala who was in attendance lauded the organisers and pledged to support them in every way they can.