Last year's runner up Koros vows to win Tinderet Barng'etuny Mountain Run on Jan 17

Last year’s Tinderet Barngetuny Mountain Run National Championship men’s runner-up, Ken Koros, has vowed to clinch the title when the event takes place on January 17.

The annual race is part of the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series, which features competitions across the Western region (Magharibi Trails), the Aberdares (Aberdare Trails) and Mt Kenya (Mt Kenya Trails).

Speaking on Friday, Koros—who finished second behind eventual winner Alfred Cheruiyot last year—said he is determined to improve on his performance.

His runner-up finish earned him a place on Kenya’s team at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Canfranc-Pirineos, Spain, where the country placed eighth overall among 72 nations.

“I made my mountain running debut last year in Tinderet and I loved it. I finished second, but this time I’m targeting a win,” said Koros.

“I have trained adequately, focusing on endurance and descending, which has been my weak area.”

Koros also welcomed the upgrade of the race distance from 14km to a classic 21km up-and-down course, noting that the competition will be intense.

“It will be a highly competitive race because experienced athletes like world champion Philemon Kiriago and former champion Patrick Kipng’eno will be there. I’m ready to go head-on with them,” he said.

A former steeplechaser and road runner, Koros revealed that he will now focus fully on mountain running, only competing in cross-country events as part of his preparation. He is targeting appearances in the Mountain Running World Cup and the Golden Trail World Series this year.

Local Organising Committee (LOC) secretary Peter Sang said preparations are in top gear, with over 500 athletes already registered online.

“Athletics Kenya has approved the new course. It’s tough but beautiful, and for the first time, the race will start and finish at the same venue,” said Sang.

Event patron and Tinderet Member of Parliament Julius Melly confirmed that more than 3,000 runners are expected to take part, with over 10,000 spectators anticipated.

“This event is not only a platform to celebrate Kenya’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, but also an opportunity to empower our communities through sports and tourism,” Melly said, adding that it will boost economic growth and showcase the Rift Valley to the world.