By Wasike Elvis
Final preparations for the much-anticipated Sirikwa Classic cross-country are underway, with a press conference held today at the Boma Inn Hotel in Eldoret, highlighting the exciting prospects for the upcoming event. The marathon, scheduled for February 22, 2025, is set to showcase top-tier athletes, with a special emphasis on the female competitors, particularly world record holder Faith Kipyegon and rising star Agnes jebet.
Kipyegon, the Olympic champion and world record holder in the 1500m, will take on the challenge in the elite women’s 10KM race. With her remarkable international success, including three global titles since her participation in the 2023 Sirikwa Classic, Kipyegon is eager to continue her winning streak. "I’ve followed a strict training routine and feel well-prepared for this season. The Sirikwa Classic in 2023 set a strong foundation, and I’m excited to build on that success," Kipyegon said during the press conference.
Agnes Jebet, a rising star in marathon running, expressed her excitement about competing against Kipyegon and other elite athletes. "Competing against champions like Faith motivates me to push my limits," Chebet remarked. "It’s a great opportunity to test myself on home soil and race against some of the best in the world."
The Sirikwa Classic cross-country has become a significant event on the athletics calendar, especially in showcasing Kenya’s growing strength in women’s long-distance running. Athletics Kenya President General Jackson Tuwei praised the increasing prominence of female athletes in Kenya, noting their major contributions to the country's success on the global stage. "Our women athletes have consistently brought more medals than the men, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements," Tuwei stated. He also encouraged more men to engage in track events to achieve a balanced national achievement.
Renowned coach Patrick Sang also commended the presence of top competitors like Kipyegon and Chebet, stating their participation would inspire young runners to elevate their performance. "Having Faith and Agnes here will challenge up-and-coming athletes and provide invaluable experience," Sang said. "Racing against world-class athletes is essential for improving skills and raising the bar."
The event features several categories, including the under-20 women’s 6KM race and the under-20 men’s 8KM race, with significant incentives for winners. The top finishers in both the men’s and women’s elite races will each receive Ksh 780,000, a prize increase designed to motivate participants. Prizes will be awarded through to the 15th position.
As a World Athletics bronze label event, the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country not only celebrates athletic excellence but also highlights the role of women in driving Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running. With athletes like Kipyegon and Chebet leading the charge, Kenyan women continue to inspire the world of athletics.
In a bid to ensure fair play, Barnaba Korir, the director of the race, confirmed that Athletics Kenya (AK) has implemented strict measures to combat age cheating in competitions. AK officials will be rigorously verifying athletes’ ages through document checks to ensure all competitors participate in their correct categories. "We are committed to maintaining integrity in the sport, and we encourage educators and parents to help foster a culture of honesty and fairness among young athletes," Korir said.
As the countdown to the Sirikwa Classic cross country continues, all eyes are on the remarkable women athletes who are set to make history once again on the global athletics stage.
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.