Three-time Valencia Half Marathon champion Kibiwott Kandie is optimistic about a successful 2025 after a strong start to the year at the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Cross Country Championships on Friday at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.
Kandie views his performance at the championships as a promising sign of things to come after a challenging 2024.
“I am happy and grateful to start my season with a win. It’s a great sign for what’s ahead. This event is always highly competitive,” said the Embakassi Garrison Bombardier.
The former world half marathon record holder crossed the finish line in 29:24.8, securing first place ahead of Wajir Air Base’s Wisley Yego (29:28.7) and Kahawa Garrison’s Wilson Too (29:47.7), who took second and third, respectively.
Kandie credited his victory to the discipline and hard work he invested in training in the months leading up to the competition.
The 28-year-old is hopeful this season will not mirror the struggles of 2024, when he began on a high note only to falter later.
Kandie kicked off 2024 with a victory at the Barcelona Half Marathon on February 11, clocking 59:22 to take top honours.
Kenya Defence Forces Cross Country.
However, it was his last podium finish of the year, as disappointing performances followed at the Prefontaine Classic and the Berlin Marathon in May and September.
At the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon, he finished sixth with a time of 26:58.97, and in Berlin, he placed 13th after completing the marathon in 2:06:46.
