NANDI COUNTY - Bernard Langat and Judith Jepng'etich emerged as champions in their respective categories at the Betika Kapsabet 15km Road Race, setting new standards in the competition held in Nandi County on Sunday.

According to Kenya News Agency, Bernard Langat, training out of Keringet, Nakuru County, established a new course record with a time of 44:13.7, leading the men's category. He was closely followed by Kiprotich Langat, who finished with a time of 44:26.9, while Felix Kirui from Baringo County secured the third spot. Post-race, Langat shared his elation and future aspirations, emphasizing the significance of his training regimen to his victory. He remarked on the competitiveness of the race and his excitement for future competitions.

Kiprotich Langat, who took the second place, expressed his satisfaction with the race's challenging nature and his anticipation for improved performance in forthcoming events, noting the high level of competition among Kenyan athletes.

In the women's category, Judith Jepng'etich, after transitioning her training base from Nyahururu to Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet, won the race with a time of 50:45.1. She was followed by Janeth Jepkosgei and Joan Jepkosgei, who finished in second and third places, respectively. Jepng'etich, who had previously not competed in a 15km road race, felt motivated by her victory and is now keen to focus on marathon races, citing the race's difficulty and the opportunities it presents.

Betika's Managing Director, Mutua Mutava, emphasized the company's commitment to nurturing talent through such events, highlighting their unique approach to supporting athletes from the grassroots level. He pointed out the untapped potential in the counties and Betika's role in bringing those talents to the forefront.

The winners of the race were awarded Sh250,000 each, with the second and third-place finishers receiving Sh150,000 and Sh100,000, respectively. Moreover, the fourth and fifth-place finishers were awarded Sh50,000 and Sh40,000, while those who finished sixth to tenth in both men's and women's categories received Sh20,000, underscoring the race's role in promoting athletic talent across the region.