In a thrilling display of endurance and speed, Kenya’s Patrick Kipngeno and Joyce Muthoni Njeru emerged victorious at the Trofeo Nasego in Casto, Italy, on Sunday, adding to their impressive performances in the Valsir Mountain Running World Cup fixture.
One day after his win in the Vertical Nasego, Kipngeno completed a remarkable double by taking the top spot in the longer Trofeo Nasego race. Meanwhile, Muthoni Njeru dominated the women’s race, finishing nearly two minutes ahead of her nearest competitor.
The Trofeo Nasego featured a challenging 21.5km course, which included several fast, runnable sections and one significant climb, drawing many of the same runners from the previous day’s event.
The men’s race started at a rapid pace, with the Kenyan runners quickly setting the tone. Kipngeno, alongside compatriots Josphat Kiprotich, Philemon Ombogo Kiriago, Paul Machoka, and Michael Selelo Saoli, formed an early lead pack through the streets of Casto.
Kipngeno surged ahead as the course ascended towards Rifugio Nasego, establishing a substantial lead of about 90 seconds over Kiriago by the peak. Machoka followed in third, while the chase pack battled it out on the steep climb.
Kipngeno maintained his lead, crossing the finish line in 1:31:26, showcasing his strength and tactical prowess. Kiriago, the previous year’s champion, secured second place in 1:33:59, while Machoka claimed third in 1:34:38, narrowly beating Kiprotich by 16 seconds.
The women’s race promised excitement, with a strong lineup including last year’s double winner and reigning Vertical Nasego champion Andrea Mayr. Philaries Jeruto Kisang took an early lead, eager to overturn her defeat to Mayr from the previous day.
However, as the race progressed up the climb to Rifugio Nasego, Mayr moved ahead. Yet, it was Muthoni Njeru who made the decisive move around the 17km mark, passing Mayr and steadily widening the gap.
Muthoni Njeru crossed the finish line in 1:51:33, marking an impressive victory. Mayr finished second in 1:53:02, unable to close the distance in the final stages, while Finland’s Susanna Saapunki claimed third place with a time of 1:54:00.
These victories by Kipngeno and Muthoni Njeru underscore the continued dominance of Kenyan runners in the mountain running circuit, with both athletes showcasing their remarkable endurance and tactical skills across challenging terrains.
Source: World Athletics
