Kenyans make KLSCM their domain
KUALA LUMPUR: Kenyan runners were clearly in a class of their own as they dominated the men and women’s open full marathon categories in the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM).
In the event, which started and ended at Dataran Merdeka here, Moses Kiptoo Kurgat, who was making his debut, won the men’s category after clocking 2’11:06 yesterday.
He defeated compatriots Kiprop Tonui and Ngare Joseph Mwangi, who finished second and third respectively with times of 2’15:23 and 2’16:06.
Kurgat said he could have recorded a better time if not for the humid weather but was still satisfied with his performance.
In the women’s category, Shelmith Nyawira Muriuki won the race in 2’44:16, beating compatriots Sheila Jepkosgei Chesang (2’45:15s) and Eunice Nyawira Muchiri (2’49:00) into second and third places respectively.
“I was not expecting to win because there were so many strong opponents. God was the one that helped me today,” said Muriuki.
“It also feels good to win with my compatriots. When you win, your flag is flying high for the country.”
S. Poovasanthan, 24, emerged as the champion in the Malaysian men’s full marathon after recording 2’37:56 to finally get the better of five-time winner Muhaizar Mohd.
Muhaizar came in second with 2’38:13 while Helmi Azri Suhaimi came in third with 2’40:03.
Noor Amelia Musa took home the title in the women’s category with a time of 3’13:59.