Kenyans finish 1-2-3 in Yakult 10-Miler; Mabunga tops ladies

MANILA, Philippines - Willy Rotich found little challenge from local foes as he and two other Kenyans once again came up with a 1-2-3 finish in the 24th Yakult 10-Miler (16-kilometer) yesterday at the Cultural Center Complex in Pasay.

With last year’s winner Benjamin Kipkazi not around to chase him, Rotich reached the Star City finish line along Vicente Sotto Ave. in 51 minutes, 30 seconds.

Rotich, who is still sore from a trail running competition he joined with Kipkazi last Friday, was one minute, 14 seconds ahead of Eliud Kering, who was the only one chasing him halfway into the race.

Another Kenyan, Elijah Kipruto, took third coming in with a clocking of 54:20.

Far Eastern University varsity runner Darwin Lim, back from a three-month layoff and a left knee injury, placed fourth in 56:55.

“The race was nice and smooth, and it was only my friends Eliud and Elijah who were chasing me,” said Rotich, who was runner-up to Kipkazi last year.

In the women’s division, FEU varsity bet Jennysmyl Mabunga surprised defending champion Irine Kipchumba for the women’s 16K honors.

The 20-year old Mabunga left Kipchumba after the first seven kilometers and clocked a time of 1:03.14. Kipchumba arrived  some six minutes, 14 seconds later.

Batangueño runner Bendoy Junrel topped the men’s 5-km run in 16:49, while insurance company employee Alyssa Casaclang won the women’s side in 23:39.