Kenyan Duo Simply Great

5 OCT2011

Despite the wet and blustery conditions that swept over the Scottish capital on Sunday morning, Martin Mathathi secured a convincing victory in the Bupa Great Edinburgh Run (October 2). Along with compatriot Lucy Kabuu, the runners replicated their success in the Great North Run a fortnight earlier, with Mathathi once again setting a course record.

Mathathi was given a tough fight throughout the 10km race by fellow countryman and defending champion Titus Mbishei before pulling away with just over a kilometre to run. The Kenyan finished 28:03, with Mbishei crossing the line five seconds later. The British runner Tom Humphries completed the top three positions with a time of 29:18.

With Mathathi and Mbishei breaking clear after just two kilometres, the pair became embroiled in a tense battle with both runners taking the lead at different stages. Mathathi, however, a renowned fast finisher, gradually exerted his power in the concluding stretch.

The Great North Run champion reflected on their enthralling contest: "I found it very tough with Titus constantly surging and it did hurt me, but this was another important race for me to win." Mathathi, who insists competing in the 10k at the London Olympics is his major ambition, added, "This is my best distance and what I am training for and will concentrate on in the winter."

Kabuu continued her impressive form with another convincing victory in the female race. The Kenyan athlete broke free around the midway point and despite attention from Helen Clitheroe, Charlotte Purdue, and Commenwealth Marathon Champion Irene Jerotich, completed the 10k course in an impressive 32:28.

Aware of the inclement conditions, Kabuu said she tried to focus on maintaining a constant speed, adding: "I kept going at my pace but I was fearing the others might catch me on the downhill stretches where it was really slippery." The Kenyan athlete completed the course 30 seconds ahead of British runner Purdue (32:58), while Irene Jerotich took third position with a time of 33:16.

For a full breakdown of last weekend's action, visit northernrunningguide.com's race and results page