ELDORET, Kenya — The 5th Absa Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour unfolded spectacularly at Lobo Village, Kapseret, Uasin Gishu County on Saturday, 14th February, with Kenya’s top athletes asserting their dominance in front of an international field.
Reigning World Cross Country Champion Agnes Jebet Ng’etich retained her senior women’s 10km crown, while Boston Marathon winner John Korir stunned the field to claim the men’s title, highlighting Kenya’s enduring strength in long-distance running.
Ng’etich Leads Kenyan Sweep in Women’s Race
Ng’etich, fresh from her global cross-country triumph in the United States, led the women’s race from start to finish, completing the 10km course in 32:28. Her commanding performance secured her second Sirikwa Classic title, further cementing her reputation as one of the world’s elite distance runners.
Kenya completed a clean sweep of the podium: Mercy Chepkemoi earned silver in 33:42, while Catherine Manangole took bronze in 33:51. Uganda’s Joy Cheptoyek finished fourth, with Kenyan runners filling positions five through 25.
“The support from the fans was amazing and kept me motivated throughout the race,” Ng’etich said. “Winning at home, after recently taking the World Cross Country title, is very special. I look forward to discussing my next steps with my coach.”
Korir Overcomes Ebenyo in Men’s 10km
In the men’s event, John Korir clocked 29:44 to claim his first cross-country title, narrowly beating Amos Kiprotich (29:46) and Silas Senchura (29:46). Defending champion Daniel Ebenyo, who had won the previous edition, finished fifth.
Korir described the race as an important fitness test ahead of his Boston Marathon title defence:
“I wanted to gauge my shape, and winning my first cross-country race is beyond what I expected. It gives me great confidence going forward.”
Gold medallists received Ksh 770,000, silver winners Ksh 642,000, and bronze medallists Ksh 513,000.
Rising Stars Shine in 2km Races
The 2km events highlighted emerging talent in Kenyan athletics:
- Men’s 2km: Reynold Cheruiyot, World bronze medallist and former U20 1500m champion, won in 5:52, narrowly ahead of Daniel Munguti (5:53). Former World 800m champion Timothy Cheruiyot finished third in 5:54, while Olympic champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi placed fourth.
- Women’s 2km: African silver medallist Naomi Korir took gold in 6:42, with Juddy Kemunto (6:45) and Mercy Kosgei (6:54) completing the podium.
“This race was my first outing of the season and a good preparation for the track season ahead,” Naomi Korir said.
Event Growth and Legacy
Now firmly established on the World Cross Country Tour, the Sirikwa Classic has grown significantly since 2021, attracting international athletes and fostering local talent. Over 1,900 participants from 15 countries competed this year.
Olympic marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge praised the event:
“This is a city of champions. Events like this highlight Kenya’s resilience and culture of running. Young athletes gain exposure and inspiration to develop their talents.”
Meet Director Barnaba Korir emphasized youth participation as central to the event’s vision:
“Bringing young athletes into this environment allows them to learn, interact with elite runners, and develop a path toward becoming champions.”
Cabinet Secretary Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen, who presented the awards, lauded the organisers for a professionally run event and congratulated the winners for their performances.
Sponsorship and Future Outlook
With Absa Bank sponsoring for the fourth consecutive year, investing Ksh 8 million, the Sirikwa Classic has firmly positioned Eldoret as a global hub for cross-country running. Organisers have committed to expanding future editions, increasing both participation and international exposure, and continuing to nurture young talent.
The 5th edition reinforced Kenya’s status as a powerhouse in distance running, while also highlighting a growing generation of athletes ready to compete on the world stage.
