Elite runners gear up for Sirikwa Classic showdown in Eldoret

Few races test strength, tactics and resilience like the Sirikwa Classic. On Saturday, Lobo Village in Eldoret will once again be the centre of African cross-country as the continent’s best battle for supremacy.

A World Athletics Gold-level event, the Sirikwa Classic has established itself as a centrepiece of the global cross country calendar, renowned for its brutal terrain, tactical demands and championship pedigree.

The race has become a definitive proving ground, with athletes who master its unforgiving course often going on to achieve major success on the track and the roads. L

Lucrative prize money is on offer, with winners of the senior 10km races set to pocket Sh780,000, Under-20 champions Sh161,235, and 2km winners Sh257,997, adding extra incentive to an already high-stakes showdown.

Race director Barnaba Korir has urged athletes, fans and families to turn up in large numbers and be part of what he described as both a sporting spectacle and a community celebration.

“Let’s come together and celebrate our diversity, embracing the unique qualities that make us who we are and promoting a culture of inclusivity and appreciation,” Korir said. Technical director Ibrahim Hussein highlighted the evolution of cross-country from a recreational activity into a modern, highly technical discipline governed by international standards. “Cross country started in Britain in the 19th century, just like a normal game where people used to chase rabbits,” Hussein explained. “From there, the sport grew into an organised event and was later picked up by World Athletics.”

Hussein noted that cross-country differs significantly from track racing, particularly in course design, which allows creativity while maintaining strict safety guidelines.

“Cross country is different from the track. You are allowed to be innovative and plan the course how you want, but you have to follow some rules that have been laid down,” he said.

“It is athlete-centred, so you must factor in the athletes’ safety when planning the course.” For this year’s edition, Hussein confirmed that the course remains unchanged, preserving the rugged challenge that has become synonymous with the Sirikwa Classic.

“For this year’s race, the course remains unchanged,” he stated. Participation in the senior and Under-20 categories will once again be strictly by invitation, guaranteeing high-quality competition across the headline races.

Another major focus of the event will be kids’ athletics, with Korir encouraging parents to register young athletes and expose them to the sport at an early age.

“Let’s bring our children to the Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour for an exciting and unforgettable experience, where they can be inspired, learn and enjoy world-class athletics up close,” Korir said.

Korir stressed that early talent identification is key to long-term success. “Nurturing of talent should start at a young age, from five to 12 years,” he added. “That way, the youngsters will grow up knowing which event they will run.”

The start lists read like a who’s who of Kenyan distance running, with defending champions returning to protect their crowns. At the 2025 edition, Daniel Ebenyo claimed the men’s 10km title in 29:57, while Agnes Ng’etich dominated the women’s race in 32:42.

Cynthia Chepkirui and Kelvin Kiprop won the Under-20 titles. In the 2km loop race, Reynold Cheruiyot (6:01) and Purity Chepkirui (6:46) emerged victorious. Ebenyo will renew rivalries in the senior men’s race against Kelvin Chesang and Denis Kemboi, who finished second and third, respectively, at last year’s National Cross Country Championships.

Road racing star Alex Matata and rising talent Silas Senchura are also among the leading contenders. In the senior women’s contest, Ng’etich faces stiff competition from national cross country champion Maurine Chebor, national 5,000m champion Rebecca Mwangi, and experienced campaigner Lilian Kasait.

Also in the mix are last year’s Sirikwa podium finishers Janeth Chepng’etich and Miriam Chebet. The Under-20 men’s race will feature national cross-country podium finishers Franklin Kibet, Festus Kimworo and Emmanuel Kipkorir, while Mirriam Kibet and Lonah Cherono will challenge Chepkirui in the women’s category.