Salimo, Ajok excel in MTN Mbarara Run

Mbarara. Such was the mood that not even the heavy rains in Mbarara could stop close to 2000 people from taking part in the MTN Mbarara Run. Whereas many put up their best, it had to take the experience of David Salimo and Dorcus Ajok to clinch the 10km titles in the men and women’s categories, respectively. For their exploits, each earned Shs0.5m.
The run was the third and last regional run after Mbale and Gulu and to many, it acted as a tune-up for the MTN Kampala Marathon due this weekend. In Mbarara, KCCA Athletics Club made its presence felt with three out of 12 podium finishes, followed by Prisons and Police on two.
However, it was Salimo’s perseverance that made the headlines. After finishing fifth and sixth in Gulu and Mbale, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) runner gave it his all and ended on top. Three races in 21 days would demand for the best out of every elite athlete.
“Now that I have won here, I believe I can push myself to glory in the MTN Kampala Marathon. I want to take part in either the 10km or 21km run next week and see how it goes,” he said.
In the women’s 10km, Prisons’ Ajok had to ward off stiff competition from Rebecca Cheptegei of UPDF and Nite Achiru of Ndejje.

10km men

1. David Salimo (UWA)
2. Peter Kibet (Arua)
3. Pitalius Kwemoi (KCCA)

10km women

1. Dorcus Ajok (Prisons)
2. Rebecca Cheptegei (UPDF)
3. Nite Achiru (Ndejje)

5km men

1. Calvin Chelimo (KCCA)
2. Sarius Sunday (Police)
3. Vincent Chemutai (Police)

5km women

1. Cheko Moi (KCCA)
2. Rebecca Chelangat (Prisons)
3. Aisha Chebet (Arua)