By Wasike Elvis
As excitement builds for the 2025 Absa Sirikwa Classic World Cross-Country Championships on February 22 at the Lobo Village Course in Eldoret, organizers have announced a groundbreaking prize money structure, setting a new standard in cross-country events.
Race director Barnaba Korir revealed that this year’s edition will offer the highest prize money ever seen in the history of the Sirikwa Classic, with a robust compensation scheme designed to reward the top performers across various categories. For the first time in the event’s history, athletes finishing in the top 15 positions will be rewarded, expanding the scope of recognition for exceptional talent.
“This year’s prize money structure is one of the highest ever offered in cross-country,” said Korir during the official launch in Eldoret. “We’ve made sure to reward athletes across a broader spectrum, extending the prize pool to the top 15 finishers. Typically, other cross-country races pay only up to the top eight, but we’ve gone above and beyond to ensure more athletes benefit from their hard work.”
The winners of the senior race will walk away with Ksh. 780,000, while the top U-20 athlete will earn Ksh. 162,500. Second and third-place finishers in the senior category will receive Ksh. 650,000 and Ksh. 520,000, respectively. Additional prizes are up for grabs for the athletes finishing in the fourth to tenth positions, with rewards ranging from Ksh. 390,000 to Ksh. 260,000.
In addition to the prize money, Korir confirmed that young prospects competing in the U-20 category will also be recognized, with cash prizes for the top finishers. The race has attracted a stellar lineup of athletes from around the world, including those from Uganda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Poland, and beyond, promising a thrilling day of competition.
“This is a momentous year for the Sirikwa Classic. With top international runners and young, upcoming stars, we’re poised to deliver an unforgettable event,” Korir added. “We’re excited to celebrate our athletes and the dedication they put into their training, and we’re thrilled to offer them this level of recognition.”
The Sirikwa Classic, now in its fourth edition, will be an important event for athletes seeking to make a mark on the global stage. The challenging Lobo Village course, known for its tough terrain with steep uphill and downhill stretches, as well as unpredictable weather conditions, will provide an intense test of endurance and mental toughness.
As the global spotlight falls on Eldoret, Athletics Kenya president Rtd. Gen. Jack Tuwei has called on athletes to uphold the integrity of the sport and avoid the temptation of doping, emphasizing that it is a critical issue that tarnishes Kenya's reputation.
“It’s a shame when any athlete resorts to doping,” Tuwei said. “We must respect our country and ensure we maintain a clean image in the world of athletics. Let’s also avoid other issues such as gender-based violence and age manipulation.”
Tuwei also shared that Kenya has officially applied to host the World Championships in 2029, highlighting the need for a clean, disciplined approach to the sport in order to elevate the country’s status on the global stage.
“The World Championships is a huge step for us, but we cannot move forward if we continue to have issues with doping and other distractions. Discipline is key to preserving the legacy we’ve built,” he added.
IOC member and Kenyan athletics icon Paul Tergat also spoke out, urging athletes to stay focused and avoid the temptation of doping, stressing that such actions damage both personal careers and the reputation of the nation.
“The eyes of the world are on us,” Tergat said. “Let’s set a positive example for future generations and ensure that we maintain our integrity.”
As February 22 approaches, the 2025 Sirikwa Classic is shaping up to be a landmark event in the world of cross-country. With record prize money, international competition, and a renewed focus on ethical standards, the event promises to be a true celebration of the spirit of athletics.
Fans and spectators are encouraged to attend in person, while others can follow the action through live broadcasts. With the future of Kenyan athletics on the line, all eyes will be on Eldoret as the world's best cross-country athletes take to the Lobo Village course.
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