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Two-time world cross-country champion Geoffrey Kamworor and Agnes Tirop won the men’s and women’s 10,000m titles during the Athletics Kenya National Championships at the Nyayo National Stadium yesterday.

However, while Tirop will be representing Kenya in the September 28 to October 6 World Athletics Championships in Doha, Qatar, Kamworor will skip the event, having used yesterday’s race as part of his build-up for November’s New York Marathon.

“Today was part of my preparations for New York Marathon. I wish the young team the very best in Doha. I will also be available for advice should anyone need me,” said Kamworor.

Kamworor, representing Kenya Police, timed 27:24.76 to beat World Under-20 10,000m champion Rhonex Kipruto (Police) and Rodgers Kwemoi (Nairobi) who timed 27:26.34 and 27:26.92 respectively.

Kipruto and Kwemoi will be joined by Kenya Defence Forces’ Alex Oloitiptip in Doha.

In the women’s race, Tirop, the 2017 world bronze medallist, stunned World 5,000m champion Hellen Obiri after clocking 31:25.00 ahead of the latter’s 31:25.38 with Kenya Prisons’ Monica Wanjiru (3:26.22) finishing third.

In that particular race, it was not until the final lap that a park of four contenders was separated, the top three breaking from Irine Kimais who had led up to the 23rd lap.

“I have gained a lot of experience since finishing third in London two years ago. I will go back to the Championships full of experience. Besides, I have amazing team-mates in Obiri and Wanjiru,” said Tirop. 

Obiri, who was only running in her second -ever track race at the event, says Kenya has huge chance at the Worlds in both the 10,000m and 5,000m. 

“My biggest target is defending my title in Doha. I am thinking about doubling but I have a few weeks to consult my coach, manager and AK before a decision is made,” said Obiri.