Bedan Karoki won last year’s RAK half marathon. Photo/iaaf.org
Thirteen Kenyan athletes will be among many other athletes from around the world who will take to the field during this year’s edition of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Half Marathon in the United Arab Emirates.
The half Marathon is set for February 09, 2018 with last year’s winner Bedan Karoki among the thirteen Kenyan male athletes confirmed for the race.
It took Karoki 59 minutes and 10 seconds to win last year’s race, and he will be seeking to defend that title next month.
According to rakmarathon.org, Karoki will however face competition from other elite runners among them twelve Kenyans.
The other Kenyans are: Jorum Lumbasi Okombo, James Wangari, Josphat Tanui, Albert Kangogo, Augustine Choge, Edwin Kiptoo, Vincent Rono, Leonard Barsoton, Alex Kibet, Geoffrey Yegon, Solomon Yego and Shadrack Kimining.
Wikipedia.org reveals that RAK half marathon has been a breeding ground for Kenyan long distance runners who eventually storm major World marathons.
The half marathon was initiated in 2007 with 2008 Olympic Marathon gold winner the late Samuel Wanjiru emerging victorious.
Patrick Makau won the 2008 and 2009 editions, Geoffrey Mutai won in 2010, Dennis Kipruto in 2012, Geoffrey Kipsang in 2013 and Bedan Karoki in 2017.
Kenyan female athletes have upstaged their male counterparts in the half marathon winning in 8 editions.