Running News Daily

KATA Time Trial No. 52 unfolded quietly on the familiar tarmac roads of Thika, but the morning (Jan 21) delivered a series of determined solo efforts and encouraging performances across the distances. With athletes often running alone against the clock, the session tested discipline, pacing, and mental toughness—hallmarks of the KATA training philosophy.

In the men’s 5km, 17-year-old Robin Musa delivered the standout performance of the morning, stopping the clock at 15:37. Running entirely on his own, Musa showed maturity beyond his years, holding his rhythm without the benefit of a pack. His effort drew appreciation from coaches and observers, underscoring his growing potential.

Finishing second was Yedi Kohen, KATA’s paid guest from Israel, who continues his preparation for an upcoming race. Kohen clocked 24:14, running barefoot on the tarmac. Beyond the footwear choice, his relaxed stride and controlled execution reflected steady progress within his training block.

The women’s 5km featured a single competitor, but Regina Sandiki made the most of the opportunity, posting an impressive 19:18. A 400-metre specialist transitioning to longer distances, Sandiki continues to adapt well to endurance training, with her development suggesting a promising future.

The men’s 10km saw Stephen Kangethe take control early and maintain his lead throughout, crossing the line in 28:45. Running much of the race alone, Kangethe demonstrated strength and composure, particularly over the final kilometres. He later noted the challenge of pushing the pace without competition, having opened nearly a one-minute gap on the field.

Second place went to Raphael Karita in 29:43, followed by Peter Njeru, who rounded out the podium with 30:02.

In the women’s 10km, Loise Kiaríe claimed victory with a strong and consistent run, stopping the clock at 33:53. Jacinta Kamau followed in 34:41, while Susan Njuu secured third in 35:37, highlighting solid depth among KATA’s women over the longer distance.

Time Trial No. 52 may have been modest in size, but it reinforced a central truth of KATA’s program: progress is forged through honest effort, whether running in a pack or alone against the clock.

A previous guest from France, Marie Barin donated 30 pairs of running shoes to KATA.  The fourth photo shows some of those shoes being handed out as prizes and the next photos shows some being handed out at KATA,  The next photo is Dennis picking up the shoes.  "This was so nice of Marie and Arthur, her mate, to make such a kind donation," says KATA director Bob Anderson.  

Race Results

MEN 5km

1. Robin Musa (17) — Bib 08 — 15:37

2. Yedi Kohen (28) — Bib 80 — 24:14

WOMEN 5km

Out 1. Regina Sandiki (19) — Bib 81 — 19:18

MEN 10km

1. Stephen Kangethe (22) — Bib 07 — 28:45

2. Raphael Karita (27) — Bib 85 — 29:43

3. Peter Njeru (28) — Bib 46 — 30:02

4. James Murithi (29) — Bib 100 — 30:41

5. Bernard Waweru (40) — Bib 39 — 31:26

6. Joel Maina (40) — Bib 32 — 31:42

7. Boniface Mungai (30) — Bib 05 — 32:13

8. Charles Ndirangu (24) — Bib 79 — 32:31

9. Erick Cheruiyot (30) — Bib 40 — 32:35

10. Joseph Nyota (20) — Bib 31 — 33:31

11. Paul Nganga (45) — Bib 30 — 34:14

12. David Muriuki (40) — Bib 44 — 34:25

13. Bernard Gicheha (35) — Bib 76 — 35:37

14. Charles Ndirangu (64) — Bib 82 — 37:32

WOMEN 10km

1. Loise Kiaríe (24) — Bib 33 — 33:53

2. Jacinta Kamau (24) — Bib 36 — 34:41

3. Susan Njuu (40) — Bib 43 — 35:37

4. Jane Wanja (35) — Bib 83 — 36:52

5. Caren Chepkemoi (24) — Bib 70 — 38:22

6. Ruth Macharia (27) — Bib 68 — 43:39