Kenyan distance-running legends Hellen Obiri, Rosemary Wanjiru, and Vivian Cheruiyot will compete in the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run 10 K on May 18, 2025. The event, expected to draw tens of thousands of participants, will see the trio battle on a fast, flat course through central Manchester’s iconic landmarks.
Hellen Obiri, the two-time Olympic silver medalist and 2023 Boston Marathon champion, adds elite pedigree to the race. On the other hand, Wanjiru, the 2022 Berlin Marathon winner, and Cheruiyot, a four-time world champion and 2016 Olympic 10,000m gold medalist, bolster a formidable Kenyan contingent.
Moreover, the race serves as a key preparatory event for athletes targeting major championships later in the season.
The 10K route passes landmarks including Coronation Street studios and the Imperial War Museum, with live music and enthusiastic crowd support. Participants can choose between the 10K and half-marathon distances, though the Kenyan stars are confirmed for the shorter event. Charity runners aim to raise £150-£300 for causes like mental health and muscular dystrophy research.
How Do Hellen Obiri, Rosemary Wanjiru, and Vivian Cheruiyot Keep Kenya Dominating Long-Distance Running?
Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running continues, thanks largely to athletes like Hellen Obiri, Rosemary Wanjiru, and Vivian Cheruiyot. How do they maintain such high levels of performance and consistently win on the world stage?
First, their rigorous training routines push their physical limits while honing strategic race skills. Hellen Obiri, for example, combines speed work with endurance training, allowing her to excel in both track and road races.
On the other hand, Rosemary Wanjiru focuses on tactical pacing and strength, which helps her conquer challenging marathon courses like Tokyo. Vivian Cheruiyot’s decades-long career reflects disciplined preparation and adaptability, enabling her to compete at the highest level across multiple distances.
Meanwhile, these athletes benefit from Kenya’s supportive running culture. They train in high-altitude environments, which naturally boost stamina and oxygen efficiency. They also draw motivation from a strong community of fellow runners and experienced coaches who guide their development.
Moreover, Obiri, Wanjiru, and Cheruiyot approach each race with determination and confidence, overcoming setbacks and pushing through pain barriers.