Kericho: Kericho County stamped its dominance in the Regional Term 1 Games, emerging as the overall winner with an impressive 216 points in an event held at the University of Eldoret from March 5th to 8th, 2025.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kericho County Director of Education Mr. Julius Ngoneshi commended the athletes for their hard work, discipline, and resilience. "Our students have not only demonstrated their sporting prowess but have also carried the name of Kericho County high. Their sacrifice and determination have placed us at the top, and we are immensely proud," he stated. Mr. Ngoneshi further assured the athletes of continued support as they prepare for the national stage and emphasized the role of sports in shaping students beyond academics, citing that athletics is more than just competition and teaches values essential for success in life.
Kericho County's dominance was evident across various track and field events with Gideon Kipngeno from Lesirwo and Kelvin Kipngeno from Nyabangi clinching the top two positions in the Triple Jump, while Ivan Cheruiyot of Chebwagan Boys secured second place in the Pole Vault. In the long-distance races, Brian Kiptoo from Kiptere secured first place in the 3000 metres and finished fifth in Cross Country while Mercy Chepngeno from Lesirwo, being another standout performer, won the 2000m Steeplechase and was placed second in the 1500m.
The county's excellence was also reflected in the hurdles category, where Edith Chepkemoi from Lesirwo and Abigael Cheptoo from Sugutek took first and second place, respectively, in the 100m hurdles. On the other hand, Evaline Cheptonui of Litein Day showcased her strength in the discus event, securing the top position while Nixon Korir from Cheptenye Boys emerged victorious in the 110m hurdles, demonstrating excellent form and technique.
In the pole vault event, Noela Cherotich from Sosiot Girls displayed remarkable skill to clinch first place, followed closely by Brilliant Cherotich from Gatarwet Day, who secured second position with their performances highlighting the depth of talent within Kericho County's athletics program, setting high expectations for the national competition.
The Secretary of the Kericho County Secondary Schools Sports Association, Mr. Gilbert Talam, praised the athletes for their remarkable performances and also encouraged schools to maintain their commitment to developing young sports talent. "This victory is a testament to the hard work of both the athletes and their coaches. We believe they will continue to shine at the national level," Mr. Talam said.
The Chairman of the Kericho County Secondary Schools Sports Association, Mr. Wilson Samoei, who is also the Principal of Kericho Tea Boys, urged the athletes to remain focused. "This win is just the beginning. The national stage presents an even greater challenge, and we are confident our team will make us proud once again," Mr. Samoei remarked.
The championship saw fierce competition among counties, with Kericho County leading the standings at 216 points, followed closely by Nandi County with 200 points and Nakuru County in third place with 182 points. Other counties that put up a strong performance included Trans Nzoia (154 points), Elgeyo Marakwet County (151 points), and Baringo (134 points). Other counties such as Bomet followed with 111 points, Uasin Gishu managed 106 points, West Pokot (92 points), Narok (64 points), Laikipia (54 points), and Samburu (13 points), which completed the rankings. The wide gap in points between the top and bottom counties reflected Kericho's dominance in the competition.
With their eyes now set on the national qualifiers, Kericho County athletes will undergo rigorous training to sharpen their skills with coaches who have already begun fine-tuning strategies, ensuring the team remains competitive on the national stage. The county is optimistic that its athletes will continue their winning streak and bring home more medals.