By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Sirikwa Classic Meet Director Barnaba Korir is confident that all systems are in place to deliver a world-class spectacle as athletes line up for the fifth edition of the race on Saturday in Lobo Village in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
Korir said that the Sirikwa Classic has steadily grown into one of the most important cross-country events on the continent, not just because of its World Athletics status, but due to its impact on talent development at the grassroots.
“From the beginning, our vision was to create an event that meets international standards while also giving young athletes a platform to be discovered and nurtured,” said Korir. “As organizers, we are optimistic and ready to host a world-class competition.”
The Sirikwa Classic is one of only two World Athletics Cross Country Continental Gold Tour events in Kenya and Africa, alongside the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run.
This elite status has seen the race attract top local and international athletes, while also opening doors for emerging runners to test themselves against the best.
According to Korir, the event has already proven its value as a launching pad for future stars who have gone ahead to impress at various events across the globe.
“We have seen athletes come through this race at a young age and go on to represent Kenya on the global stage, and that tells us we are on the right path in nurturing talent from the grassroots,” noted Korir.
As the competition heads into its fifth edition, Korir believes consistency and quality have been key to its success.
“Reaching a fifth edition is not easy. It takes commitment, support from stakeholders, and trust from athletes, whereby each year, we raise the bar to ensure the course, organization, and athlete welfare meet global expectations,” he added.
With elite runners, upcoming talents, and a well-prepared organizing team, the Sirikwa Classic continues to cement its place as a cornerstone of Kenya’s rich cross-country tradition and a critical steppingstone for the next generation of champions.
The head of technical Ibrahim Hussein, said that they are in the final stages of making sure the race is comfortable to both the athletes and the fans who will be following the action live at the venue.
“Cross country is meant to be an exciting event, and this year we also want to make it even better, and we are at an advanced stage of finalizing the course, which we must make sure is safe for competition. I’m delighted because as a director of this place, we are once again hosting a world event, which is an honour,” said Hussein
