Following the conclusion of registration two weeks ago, the third edition of the Great Chepsaita Run has attracted 41 countries that will be facing off come December 6th.
Race director Kennedy Tanui revealed that the course will be hosting 41 nationalities after the conclusion of the registration process on November 15th across all the registration centres.
Tanui confirmed the staggering international turnout, marking a historic milestone for the fast-growing race not just in the country but the whole region.
“We confirmed 41 nationalities who will come to this event, which surpasses the international threshold of five nationalities for it to be an international event,” Tanui said.
With the event now officially a global spectacle, Tanui announced that a World Athletics technical delegate is expected to arrive shortly to oversee preparations and ensure every aspect meets international standards.
“We want to confirm that this is now an international event. The technical delegate from World Athletics is already appointed to come and oversee the championship and she will be here soon,” he added.
Race CEO Barnaba Korir commented that the system was closed after the senior men’s and women’s entries hit full capacity.
“We have had to close registration as we have met the numbers we were expecting, especially for the senior men and women which is full,” Korir said.
Korir explained that the early closure was driven by World Athletics requirements, which dictate that senior and U-20 categories must be sealed three weeks before competition.
“All organisation structures have been put in place. This is the first year we are ahead of schedule. We have had two previous editions which we have learned from. We will also have accommodations on site for athletes from other countries to come and reside here,” he said.
Patron Farouk Kibet added a heartfelt touch to the buildup, announcing he will host a breakfast on December 2 for Kenya’s senior athlete, many of whom he says have been neglected for far too long.
“We want to ensure that our senior athletes are not forgotten. Most of our senior athletes are languishing in poverty,” Kibet said.