Isabella Ochichi of Kenya takes silver in the 5000m (© Getty Images)
Tourcoing, FranceOn the occasion of the twentieth edition of Auchan Roncq Lille Metropole – IAAF permit – cross country this Sunday, 23 January the organisers have set-up two high level races with no outstanding favourites in the men’s race but with Isabella Ochichi the standout name in the women’s division.
MEN – Unpredictable race
The men’s race (9.7km) a 5-laps circuit in Yser Park will be very close, as the strong field includes a huge number of Kenyan runners who will be challenged by a core of very experienced Europeans. Two previous winners, Ukrainian Sergiy Lebid, the five time European Cross-Country champion, the victor in 2003, and French marathoner Driss El-Himer, the 2001 winner, will try to add a second victory to their names to emulate Bernard Barmasai’s double feat in 1997 and 2000.
Their ambition will be countered by several Olympic Kenyan team members such as Wilson Boit Kipketer (former World Steeplechase champion and Olympic Silver medallist) and John Korir (6th place in Athens 10,000m). They will all have to keep a close eye on Richard Limo, who showed his shape in taking second place last week at the Seville IAAF cross country permit meet.
Other challengers trying to succeed the 2004 winner Ethiopian Abebe Dinkessa (not running) include Qatar 10,000m specialist (26:38.76) Abdullah Ahmad Hassan and French 1500m star Driss Maazouzi, 35 years old, who is back in the leading pack after several injuries.
Women - Who else but Ochichi?
In the women’s contest there would seem to be an easily predictable result awaited for the 25 year-old Kenyan Isabella Ochichi. Her CV is so impressive that she is a clear favourite. Olympic Silver medallist at 5000m, and 14:46.42 performer, who competes regularly on road and xc races in France will start the race with the confidence provided by her success in Le Mans Cross-Country last weekend. The 5.53km distance perfectly fits Ochichi’s abilities and current form and puts her out of reach of the pack we would assume.
Ochichi’s teammate and runner-up in Le Mans Lenah Cheruiyot is expected to be upfront in the chase as is Romanian Simona Fodor and French 1500m runner Maria Martins. Unfortunately, Ethiopian Teyiba Erkesso won’t defend her 2004 Tourcoing victory.
Tourcoing’s impressive list of past women’s winners, includes legends such as Lynn Jennings, Zola Budd, Gabriela Szabo and Paula Radcliffe.
The French weather forecast predicts a cloudy and rainy Sunday, ideal weather for running in the northern French countryside!
Pierre-Jean Vazel for the IAAF
