Nyiransabimana leads Rwanda’s assault in Ngong race

Rak half marathon results

1. Patrick Makau (Ken) 0:58:52
2. Wilson Kipsang (Ken) 0:58:59
3. Deriba Merga (Eth) 0:59:18
18.Slyvain Rukundo (Rwa) 1:04:27

Rwanda’s Sylvain Rukundo failed to make an impact ion his debutant Rak half marathon yesterday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Rukundo finished in 18th position after clocking one hour, four minutes and 27 seconds in the race which was won by Kenya’s Patrick Makau.

Makau also ran the 2nd fastest half marathon time ever, at 58:52 breaking the course record of 58:53 set by Wanjiru in 2007, which entitled him to a further $5000, though breaking the World Record (58:33) would have meant a $100,000 jackpot.

Rukundo, 20 was using the race to put him in shape for the World Cross-country Championships due March 28 in Amman, Jordan.

This was his second international race this year. He finished 14th in his international half marathon debut clocking 1:06:07 in the San Blas half marathon in Puerto Rico.

After such a show, the National Police athlete will need to better his performance if he is to have a chance against the World’s best in Jordan.

Meanwhile, Angelline Nyiransabimana leads Rwanda’s hunt for pride in today’s Iaaf Permit/KCB National Cross-Country Championships at Ngong Racecourse in Nairobi.

Other women athletes in the team are Lamberte Nyabamikazi, Pelagie Musengimana, Adeline Musabyeyezu, Genesse Nyirahabimana, Claudette Mukasakindi and Epiphanie Nyirabarame.

The male team is comprised of JMV Uwajeneza, Anicet Kanyabugoyi, Eric Mpazimpaka, Felix Ntirenganya, Cyriaque Ndayikengurikiye and Alex Ninzeyimana.

The Ngong race is a trial competition for Kenyan athletes who are vying for the national team that will take part in the Iaaf World Cross Country Championship due in Jordan on March 28.

Uganda has sent 11 athletes while Botswana Djibouti, Sri Lanka and Malawi have two runners each.

Ends