Lorenzo outkicks Yakult 16K foes; Kenyans 1-2-3

CINDERELLA Lorenzo retained her Yakult 16K crown while the Kenyans swept anew the first three places in the men’s division at CCP Complex in Pasay Sunday.

The 25-year-old Lorenzo dominated the women’s race right from the start, clocking 1 hour, 7 minutes and 21 seconds to pocket the P7,000 top prize. She finished ahead of Mona Liza Ambasa (1:08.00) who bagged P5,000.

Criselyn Jaro edged younger sister Celie in a photo finish at 1:21.52 for third place. She took home P4,000 and a trophy.

“I really prepared for this,” the jubilant Lorenzo, who won over a Kenyan last year.

Eliud Kering ruled the men’s race in 51:29 minutes and picked up P7,000.

David Kipsang (53:36) and Elphiz Kiptarus (55:35) made it a 1-2-3 Kenyan finish.

The absence of Southeast Asian Games-bound Rafael Poliquit, five-time marathon champion Eduardo Buenavista and other top local runners made it easier for the Kenyans in the 26th edition of the annual footrace.

Charles Bitoon Jr. was the best-placed Filipino runner as he placed fourth in 1:04.08.

Junrel Bendoy bagged the men’s 5K in 17:16, edging Diosmar Garcia by two seconds. Victor Gabelo took third in 18:38.

Lyca Sarmiento ruled the distaff 5K race in 20:42, followed by Rochelle Abanis (24:03) and Rishane Abellar (24:04).

About 3,000 runners answered the starting gun of the race supervised by veteran race director Rudy Biscocho.