Edwin Kipruto and Viola Chepngeno cruised to phenomenal victories at this year’s edition of Eldoret City Marathon yesterday.

Fresh from a ninth place at the Daegu Marathon in February, Kipruto ran a glorious race, leading in the entire second half of the men’s race.

The Hamburg half marathon runner-up was a top contender by the 30km mark after making his move at the 15km point, and by the time he climbed Kapsoya hills his confidence was top.

He powered to victory in 2:11:21, defeating Geoffrey Chirchir (2:11:56) and Timothy Kipchumba (2:12:08), who came in second and third in a race run under warm conditions.

Kipruto said the win was a major morale boost as he gets set for Kenya Defence Forces track and field championships.

 “I was not under any pressure to win the race but I was well prepared for either victory or disappointment. I aimed to lead until 30km and see the reaction from the field. After 30km, the field had reduced to the two of us at the front and I had planned to be alone from Kaptagat Road because that is the onset of a tough slope,” Kipruto said after his win.

In the women’s contest, Chepngeno, who trains in Keringet, Nakuru County faced a major opposition from second-placed Shaila Jebichi from Kapsait, Elgeyo Marakwet.

They changed leads from 25km, before Jebichi pulled away just after the 30km mark.

When Jebichi thought she was establishing the lead, Chepngeno tactically unleashed a super speed before regaining the leadership position, which she held until she whizzed the tape.

“I ran with Shaila for a better part of the race and I made a decision to push harder at a point that would be difficult for her to respond. I also attribute the performance in Eldoret to my experience in road running and the push by a pacesetter,” Chepngeno said.