Kenya’s finest cyclists have been crowned national champions after a thrilling showdown at the National Road Cycling Championships in Kericho, with winners earning national champion status, cash prizes, valuable international ranking points and a chance to represent the country on the global stage.
The championship, organized by GreenHeart Champions in partnership with the Kenya Cycling Federation, attracted elite, amateur and para-cyclists from across the country, who battled for top honours along the scenic roads of Kericho’s rolling tea estates.
Speaking during the flagging off of the championship at Moi Gardens in Kericho Town, Kericho County Governor Dr. Erick Mutai said the event provided an opportunity to showcase Kericho’s sporting potential, natural beauty and growing reputation as a sports tourism destination.
The Governor, who was accompanied by Kenya Cycling Federation Chief Executive Officer Kelvin Mwangi, welcomed cyclists, officials and spectators from across the country, noting that the championship would contribute to local economic growth while promoting sporting excellence.
“I commend the Kenya Cycling Federation for selecting Kericho as the host county; such events help nurture talent and position the county as a preferred destination for major sporting events,” said Dr. Mutai
In the Elite Men 120-kilometre race, Peterson Kamau emerged champion after crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 39 minutes and 40 seconds. Cornelius Kemboi finished a close second in 2:39:41, while veteran cyclist and mentor Evan Wangai came third in 2:40:15.
Kendra Masiga claimed victory in the Elite Women 100-kilometre race after clocking 3:00:13. Monica Jelimo finished second in 3:05:18, while Nancy Debe completed the podium places in 3:05:59.
The Under-23 Men 110-kilometre title went to Ivan Kipruto, who posted a winning time of 2:45:29. Stanley Ngugi and John Mushiri finished second and third, respectively, with identical times of 2:50:47.
In the Under-23 Women 90-kilometre category, Sherry Chepkemboi emerged victorious in a time of 3:10:40, while Margaret Mutuku finished second in 3:48:08.
Mevin Njuguna won the Youth category after clocking 57 minutes and 53 seconds. Michael Matindi finished second in 58:02, while Allan Maina came third in 59:49.
Naomi Jeptanui secured victory in the Junior Women 70-kilometre race in a time of 1:46:43. Mercy Eragae finished second in 1:48:56, while Sharon Cheruiyot came third in 1:49:34.
The Junior Men 80-kilometre race produced one of the closest finishes of the day, with Edwin Kandie taking first place in 1:46:01. Frankline Kibet recorded the same time for second place, while Duncan Ruto finished just a second behind in 1:46:02.
In the Para-Cycling Class C 80-kilometre race, Gabriel Ambuko emerged champion after posting a time of 2:27:20. Dedan Ireri finished second in 2:54:03, while Samuel Mwangi came third in 2:58:11.
Samuel Ndung’u won the Black Mamba 50-kilometre race after clocking 1:24:55. John Ngotho followed closely in 1:25:05, while Peter Mahoga completed the podium in 1:25:51.
One of the most inspiring moments of the championship came in the tandem category, where visually impaired cyclist Martin Kariuki partnered with his able-bodied pilot to secure gold, drawing admiration from spectators and fellow competitors.
Winners in the various categories received cash prizes of Sh50,000, Sh40,000 and Sh30,000 for first, second and third positions, respectively, in addition to gift hampers and the coveted national champion’s jersey.
The national champion’s jersey allows winners to compete as Kenya’s reigning champions at sanctioned cycling events during the 2026/2027 season, while also earning valuable Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) points that boost their global rankings and improve their chances of selection to represent Kenya at continental and international competitions.
The race route traversed Kericho’s lush tea plantations before culminating in the Central Business District, offering riders a challenging course and spectators breathtaking views of the county’s landscape.
To facilitate the championship, a complete road closure was effected from Exotic Hotel to Moi Gardens between 7am and 1pm, with motorists advised to use alternative routes.
Organizers said the event was designed to promote healthy living, environmental conservation and community engagement while providing a safe and enjoyable experience for cyclists of all skill levels.
The championship featured clearly marked routes, hydration stations, safety teams and community cheering points that created a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day.
Sponsors of the event included the Tea Board of Kenya, Browns Plantations, the Kenya Cycling Federation and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).
By Kibe Mburu
