Uganda long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo on Sunday won the New York City Half Marathon in the United States.
The reigning World Cross Country Gold Medalist, secured the 21 kilometers race victory in 1:1.31 seconds.
Joshua Cheptegei secured the second position in 1:02.09 seconds while Morroco’s Taibi Zouhair finished third clocking 1:02.18 seconds.
Kiplimo broke from the group at 15km and battled with Cheptegei and Zouhair up to 18km before he broke off, running to the finishing line.
Kiplimo, attributes the victory to the perfect prior preparations in Kapchorwa with his counterpart Cheptegei.It was the first debut for Kiplimo to race at the NYC marathon and winning it.
Cheptegei the 10,000 metre Olympic Champion says, although the weather was cold, he persisted to follow his country mate so as to secure the 2nd position.
“I thank God for the position, in everything you have to give God glory, we have achieved our plan to return home when both of us are shinning”. He said.
Meanwhile, in the women’s category, Kenya’s, Hellen Obiri won after crossing the finishing line at 1:07.21 defeating Ethiopia’s Sedeni Teferi who finished the race in 1:07.55.
–URN
