Kenyan athletes showcased exceptional dominance at the Vauban Mountain and Trail race, the latest stop in the 2025 World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) World Cup, held over the weekend in the historic French city of Briançon.
In the grueling 5.9km uphill race on Saturday, Richard Omaya Atuya surged ahead in the final stretch to claim the men’s title in 40:40. Fellow Kenyans Josphat Kiprotich (41:44) and Philemon Kiriago, despite fading late, helped establish early control. Britain’s Jacob Adkin finished third (41:53), interrupting an all-Kenyan podium sweep.
In the women’s uphill race, France’s Christel Dewalle used the home advantage to full effect, breaking away from a strong Kenyan lead pack to win in 48:40. Britain’s Scout Adkin placed second (49:27), followed by another Frenchwoman, Nélie Clément (50:06). Kenyan runners Gloria Chebet and Philaries Jeruto Kisang followed closely in fourth and fifth.
The momentum carried into Sunday’s 14km classic ‘Grand Parcours’ race, featuring steep ascents and ancient trails. Kenyan men swept the top four positions, with Michael Selelo Saoli leading the charge in 1:04:52, trailed by Kiriago (1:05:21), Ephantus Mwangi Njeri (1:05:31), and Atuya (1:06:02). France’s Theodore Klein finished fifth (1:06:39).
In a stunning turnaround, Nélie Clément, fresh off her podium finish on Saturday, captured the women’s classic title in 1:15:58, outpacing Kenyans Joyce Muthoni Njeru (1:17:11) and Valentine Jepkoech Rutto (1:17:20). Chebet and Britain’s Adkin rounded out the top five.
The two-day event not only underscored Kenya’s depth in mountain running but also cemented rising French star Clément’s breakthrough on the global stage. With Canfranc 2025 looming, both nations appear poised for strong representation at the upcoming World Mountain and Trail Running Championships.
Written By Rodney Mbua
