Cheptegei storms to victory at Durban 10K as Cherop claims women’s crown

Uganda’s long-distance star Joshua Cheptegei delivered a commanding performance to win the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Durban 10K, clocking an impressive 27:19 in a race that attracted thousands of runners on Sunday.

The Olympic and world champion dominated the 9th edition of the race, breaking away from the leading pack in the second half to secure victory in what is now the second-fastest 10km ever run on South African soil.

Cheptegei, who previously set the South African All-Comers record in Durban in 2018, said he enjoyed competing in the coastal city once again.

“The race was really good. I enjoyed running here in Durban,” he said.

After reaching the halfway mark in 13:48, the Ugandan increased his pace decisively, leaving his rivals behind.

“I decided to be more aggressive after 5km because the pace was not very fast and I wanted a quick time. Winning here motivates me for my next goal. The atmosphere was incredible, and the support from the fans was spectacular,” he added.

Kenya’s Salem Kibet finished second in 27:29, followed closely by Uganda’s Emmanuel Kibet in third place with 27:32.

In the women’s race, Kenya’s Doreen Cherop delivered a surprise victory, overtaking pre-race favourite Brenda Jepchirchir in the closing stages to win in 30:43.

Cherop, who improved her personal best, said she had initially targeted a podium finish.

“The weather was great, and the last five kilometres were very fast. I am happy to win the race, especially because my goal was just to make the podium,” she said.

Jepchirchir settled for second place in 30:52, while fellow Kenyan Beatrice Chepkoech completed the podium in 31:25.

South Africa’s Tayla Kavanagh impressed on home soil, finishing fourth in 31:28, just two seconds shy of her personal best.

Event founder Michael Meyer praised the elite performances, describing the race as exceptional.

“What we witnessed on the streets of Durban today was nothing short of extraordinary. Joshua Cheptegei once again showed why he is among the greatest distance runners of his generation, while Doreen Cherop delivered a sensational performance,” Meyer said.

Top 10 Results

Men

1. Joshua Cheptegei (Uganda) – 27:19
2. Salem Kibet (Kenya) – 27:29
3. Emmanuel Kibet (Uganda) – 27:32
4. Victor Okoth (Kenya) – 27:50
5. Agustino Daniel (Tanzania) – 28:03
6. Kabelo Mulaudzi (South Africa) – 28:06
7. Alex Lenalepisho (Kenya) – 28:10
8. Musawenkosi Mnisi (South Africa) – 28:11
9. Felix Masai (Kenya) – 28:13
10. Leonard Kwerit (Uganda) – 28:19

Women

1. Doreen Cherop (Kenya) – 30:43
2. Brenda Jepchirchir (Kenya) – 30:52
3. Beatrice Chepkoech (Kenya) – 31:25
4. Tayla Kavanagh (South Africa) – 31:28
5. Neheng Khatala (Lesotho) – 32:04
6. Cacisile Sosibo (South Africa) – 32:36
7. Jackline Rotich (Kenya) – 32:52
8. Zanthe Taljaard (South Africa) – 33:49
9. Ntsoaki Molahloe (South Africa) – 33:59
10. Zanele Maisa (South Africa) – 34:21

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