On January 19 and 20, 2024, the 12th edition of the KDF, Police & Prisons Cross Country Championships took place in Nairobi. The races were hotly contested by men and women from the security apparatus, with familiar names such as Daniel Ebenyo Simiu and 5km world record holder Beatrice Chebet emerging as the champions in their respective categories.

In the women’s 10km race, Beatrice Chebet displayed excellent form and ran a calculated race to claim victory. She finished ahead of Gladys Kwamboka and Margaret Chelimo, with Vivian Cheruiyot making a comeback and finishing in eighth place. In the men’s race, Daniel Ebenyo Simiu took the title in a thrilling fashion, followed by Edwin Kiplagat and Robert Kiprop in second and third place respectively.

In another event, Jemutai emerged as the winner in the women’s race, outpacing Cynthia Chepngeno in the final meters. Diana Chepkorir completed the podium finishes. In the men’s race, Mwaniki took first place, with Dismus Lokira and Daniel Munguti finishing in second and third place.

Notable absences from the championships included Hellen Obiri, the 2023 Boston Marathon champion. Nonetheless, the races saw impressive performances from athletes such as Kasait, who recently finished third in the 10K Ibercaja race in Spain. Kasait claimed victory in the women’s race, with Loise Chemining and Caren Chebet following behind. In the men’s category, Kiptoo crossed the finish line first, followed closely by Isaac Lasoi and Alex Nzioka.

Overall, the 2024 KDF, Police & Prisons Cross Country Championships showcased the talents of both familiar names and rising stars in the field of cross country running.