Richard Omaya Atuya and Patrick Kipng’eno delivered Kenya’s first medals at the third World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Canfranc-Pirineos, Spain, on Thursday.
Competing in the men’s 6 km uphill race, Atuya secured silver with a time of 39:04, while two-time champion Kipng’eno claimed bronze in 39:20. Switzerland’s Bonnet Remi took gold, clocking 37:50.
Speaking after the race, Atuya acknowledged the tough conditions:
“It wasn’t easy, especially with the race starting at such a high pace and the cold weather. But we pushed through and won medals for Kenya. I urge more Kenyans to embrace mountain and trail running,” he said.
In the women’s race, 2023 silver medalist Philares Kisang finished 14th, while Mirriam Chepkemoi came in 54th.
Germany’s Nina Engelhard won the race in 45:33, ahead of Finland’s Susanna Saapunki and the USA’s Anna Gibson, who both finished in 46:07.
The championships continue on Friday with the men’s and women’s short trail events.
Kenya’s medal hopes will rest on Sammy Kiplangat, Timothy Kibet, and Ken Koros in the men’s race, while Caroline Kimutai and Joyline Chepng’eno will lead the women’s team.
