NAIROBI, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's Fancy Chemutai may be granted equal status as world record holder after organizers of Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon confirmed they will apply to IAAF for ratification of her winning time.
Chemutai's braved a spirited challenge from compatriot Mary Keitany to clock 65:42 and agonizingly missed on the world record by only two seconds.
"My victory in Ras Al Khaimah was great. Disappointed it was not a world record," said Chemutai.
"With an ankle problem in my preparation, I have lost some important training days, but so extremely proud I made it this far. Thanks to my management and sponsor for the support."
However, the organizers feel Chemutai's mark deserves to be recorded as a world record as it will equal the existing official record of another Kenyan Joyciline Jepkosgei of 65:42 from Prague Half last year.
Though Jepkosgei has since improved on that record to 65:41 at the Valencia Half Marathon in October, but that time is yet to be ratified by IAAF as a world record. Also the 10-mile split of 49:29 by Caroline Kipkirui is an all-time best.
Now Chemutai will be keen to shake off her ankle problem and focus on winning Kenya a medal at the World Half Marathon in Valencia, Spain on March 24.
Chemutai will have to join forces with Jepkosgei, who was sixth at Ras Al Khaimah, for the task ahead.
The two will be joined by Ruth Chepngetich, who won the Istanbul Half Marathon last year with others including Pauline Kaveke and Mary Wachira.
Kenya's Peris Jepchirchir, who is the World Half Marathon defending champion from Cardiff in 2016, will not be returning to defend his crown.
However, she joined an exclusive club of past winners from Kenya. The list includes legendary Tegla Loroupe, marathon icon Mary Keitany, Florence Kiplagat and Gladys Cherono.
Keitany on the other hand, will be hoping to emerge from the loss to Chemutai with gust and enthusiasm as she heads to London in a bid to set a new world record in women marathon on April 22.
