Uganda’s Rogers Kibet delivered a commanding performance to win the men’s race at the Cross Cup de Hannut, a World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold event, on Sunday, January 26.
Kibet’s victory marks a significant improvement from his runner-up finish at the same event in 2022.
Charity Cherop also secured a strong podium finish in the women’s race.
In the men’s race, Kibet established himself as a frontrunner early on, navigating the challenging muddy terrain with precision.
By the second of six laps, Kibet had strung out the lead group before making his decisive move on the third loop.
His unmatched pace left Burundi’s Celestin Ndikumana and Kenya’s Gideon Rono in pursuit as he widened the gap over the final stages.
Kibet crossed the finish line in 27:03, a full 20 seconds ahead of Ndikumana, with Rono completing the podium six seconds behind.
In the women’s race, 17-year-old Charity Cherop demonstrated resilience and talent against a competitive field.
Cherop finished third with a time of 31:22, following winner Sheila Jebet of Kenya (31:01) and Ethiopia’s Yenenesh Shimket (31:07).
Men’s Leading Results:
- Rogers Kibet (UGA) – 27:03
- Celestin Ndikumana (BDI) – 27:23
- Gideon Rono (KEN) – 27:29
Women’s Leading Results:
- Sheila Jebet (KEN) – 31:01
- Yenenesh Shimket (ETH) – 31:07
- Charity Cherop (UGA) – 31:22
