Afraha Stadium roars back to life with thrilling track action

After four years of silence, Nakuru’s iconic Afraha Stadium burst back into action this time with a new look .

The newly-laid sky blue tartan track hosted a storm of talent as budding stars and elite runners lit up the arena during day one of the Athletics Kenya Betika track and field weekend meeting.

Not even the light showers could dampen the electric atmosphere as hundreds of fans filled the stands to witness the return of competition action at the 77-year-old stadium.

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) came out guns blazing, dominating several events led by Cynthia Chepngeno, who powered through, winning the 5000m women’s in a time of 15:28.6.

“I feel so happy winning here on this new tartan track. This win is a boost as I gear up for international events later this year,” said the 24-year-old soldier, after outclassing a field of 49 athletes

Her victory came after she recently missed two victories at the Castellon 10km in Spain and the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country.

On her heels was fellow KDF soldier, Gladys Jeptepkeny of Kenya Navy who crossed the finish line with a time of 15:29.6, while Cynthia Chepkirui of Lemotit Athletics Camp in Kericho claimed a hard-fought third position (15:29.9).

Diana Chepkemoi from Lemotit Athletics Camp beat a field of 13 athletes to win the women’s 3000m race, clocking an impressive time of 9:38.0.

The 18-year-old trailed in second place for almost the entire lap before powering off in the last 400 metres, finishing ahead of KDF’s Celestine Biwot, who posted 9:39.5 to settle for second place. Winny Chepteek of North Rift finished third in 10:16.8.

In the men’s 1500 metres, Vincent Kibet of Kenya Prisons stormed to victory with a time of 3:38.3, ahead of KDF’s Kyumbe Munguti who clocked 3:40.6, and Charles Simotwo finished with a time of 3:41.0.