Kenya’s runners secured five medals at the World Masters Athletics Championships held at the Slottsskogen City Park in Gothenburg, Sweden, on Sunday evening. Leading the charge was Kapenguria’s own Rosaline David, whose stellar performances in the men’s and women’s 10km road races earned her two gold medals and significantly bolstered Kenya’s standings.
Rosaline David was the standout athlete of the day, capturing gold in the women’s W45 category. Her winning time of 35:08 not only clinched the gold but also set a new championship record, underscoring her dominance in the race. This victory marks her second gold medal in the championships, following her impressive win in the women’s 5000m at the Ullevi Stadium earlier in the week.
In her debut international competition representing Kenya, Rosaline was thrilled with her achievement. “I am very happy for this win. For sure, I did not expect such a result. The race was tough because of the sharp hills, but I talked to my teammate Joan, and she told me to maintain the pace in the lead,” Rosaline said after the race. Her strategy to maintain her pace and push through the challenging terrain proved successful, as she outpaced her competitors with a formidable performance.
Joan Chepchirchir Kigen also showcased her talent, finishing just behind Rosaline in the women’s W45 category. Kigen clocked a time of 35:54, earning her a silver medal. The two Kenyan athletes’ remarkable performances were celebrated by the local crowd and back home, as they demonstrated Kenya’s prowess on the international stage.
Rosaline’s victory was further complemented by Kenneth Mburu Mung’ara’s triumph in the Men’s M50 10km Road Race. Mung’ara, who trains in Limuru, Kiambu County, clocked a championship record time of 30:22 to claim the gold medal. His outstanding performance added to Kenya’s medal tally and highlighted the country’s strength in long-distance running.
Francis Bowen, who had previously secured gold in the men’s 5000m, continued Kenya’s success by winning the silver medal in the men’s M50 10km Road Race. Bowen finished with a time of 31:27, just behind Mung’ara. French runner Fredrick Gilbert completed the podium with a third-place finish, timing 32:53.
Kenya’s achievements did not end there. Samuel Ndereba also contributed to the medal haul with a silver medal in the Men’s M45 10km Road Race. Ndereba finished with a time of 31:17, securing his place on the podium. Mustafa Muhamed of Sweden took gold in this category with a time of 30:15, while Adhanom Abraha of Sweden finished third.
Overall, Kenya’s exceptional performances at the championships have propelled the country to the top of the medal standings. With a total of 18 medals, including four golds, nine silvers, and four bronze medals, Kenya’s athletes have showcased their remarkable abilities and competitive spirit on a global platform.
Rosaline David’s request for her West Pokot governor, Honorable Simon Kachapin, to receive her at the airport highlights the significance of her achievement and her dedication to representing Kenya with pride. Her victories, alongside the impressive results of her teammates, reflect the strength and determination of Kenyan athletes in international competitions.
As the World Masters Athletics Championships conclude, Kenya’s remarkable success is a testament to the country’s commitment to excellence in athletics. The achievements of Rosaline David, Kenneth Mburu Mung’ara, Francis Bowen, and Samuel Ndereba serve as an inspiration and a reminder of Kenya’s enduring legacy in long-distance running.
