Kenyans dominate again Kipsang leads Kenyan domination in 4th Cebu City Marathon

CEBU, Philippines - After his third try, David Kipsang finally wrested the once elusive men's division crown to lead another complete domination by the Kenyans during yesterday's 4th Cebu City Marathon starting and ending at the Cebu IT Park in Brgy. Apas, this city.

It was no less a huge improvement for Kipsang, who placed only fourth during the inaugural edition of the biggest and grandest marathon event in this side of the archipelago in 2010. Last year, he wound up second overall.

This time, he basked in the glow of crowning glory.

Kipsang emerged as the fastest among male runners in the grueling 42-kilometer race, touching down the finish line in two hours, 30 minutes and 38 seconds. He pocketed P60,000 for his effort as well as his fellow Kenyan Irene Kipchumba, who reigned supreme in the women's side with the time of three hours, 28 minutes and 28 seconds.

"I love the Cebu Marathon ever since. It's actually one of my favorite races here in the Philippines that I dedicate my victory to the organizers of this marathon for a job well done," said Kipsang.

His compatriot Jackson Chirchir came out a distant second with a 2:33:39 clocking, while Douglas Mwiti finished third in 2:35:09.

The fourth to 10th placers in the premiere division were mostly Kenyans. Among the local runners, only Noel Tillor and Robert Daang made it to the elite circle.

Tillor was the fastest Pinoy entry with the time of 2:43:11, while Daang was 10th in 2:54:31.

The rest of the top finishers were Philip Kipkemei (2:35:05), Abraham Missos (2:41:49), Albert Omboga (2:43:54), James Kipkop Mibei (2:49:22), and Eliud Lele (2:52:44).

It was the same story in the women's category topped by Kipchumba followed by Patroper Kemboi (3:39:23) and Susan Chepkwong (3:49:27).

Cebu's pride Amale Mendezona-Jopson landed at fourth with the time of 3:58:21, becoming the best placed Pinay that made her first marathon event in the country even more special.

Rounding up the top 10 cast in the women's bracket were Rhodora Oporto (4:01:41), Path Torremoro(4:07:46), Virginia Parajenog (4:08:54), Lizabeth Ocampo (4:09:22), Corazon Quiamco (4:12:34) and Odiza Abellana (4:18:08).

Reigning Milo Marathon queen Mary Grace de los Santos opted to join the 21-kilometer run, ending up second only to Kenyan Jackline Nzivo.

Nzivo completed the the half marathon in one hour, 18 minutes and 28 seconds, while De los Santos clocked in 1:20:28.

Mary Joy Tabal, another running jewel from Cebu, came in third with a personal best time of 1:21:44.

Christy Sevilleno wound up fourth in 1:39:58 followed by Lucille Ruiz in 1:51:56.

The Kenyans also dominated the men's 21K battle. Willy Rotich was on top in 1:07:12 followed by Dennis Isika (1:09:21), Eliud Kering (1:10:21), Joseph Kamanja (1:10:27), and Isaac Simat (1:10:52).

It was an all-Cebuano show in the 5K action. The Andrins did another sister act, with Jhean winning top spot on a photo finish over her sister Lovely. They both ended the race in 21 minutes and 45 seconds, while their other sister Cherry was third in 21:46.

The top three in the men's side were Joebert Carolino (17:14), Michael Largo (17:36) and John Daryl Manos (17:54). (FREEMAN)