Three-time World Cross Country champion Geoffrey Kamworor, newly crowned Chicago Marathon champion Amos Kipruto and World Road Running silver medallist Caroline Makandi Gitonga have challenged Kenyan and international athletes to embrace local competitions, saying they provide an important platform for career development and preparation for major international events.
The trio spoke during the launch of the fourth edition of the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Championships, scheduled for December 5 at Chepkemel Dispensary in Uasin Gishu County.
The athletes said local competitions, despite attracting international participation, offer Kenyan athletes an opportunity to showcase their talent, gain experience and prepare for the global stage.
Kamworor, who had just returned to the country after competing at the New York City Marathon on Sunday, said the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Championships had established itself as a leading international event whose reputation should be protected.
The two-time New York City Marathon champion described the competition as an important platform for promoting Kenya’s sporting image while providing athletes with an opportunity to compete against some of the world’s best.
“This is a great event not just for Kenya but for the best athletes across the world. When we compete in such Gold Label events, it gives our country a good name,” said Kamworor.
Kipruto, who claimed the Chicago Marathon title a month ago, said Kenyan athletes stood to benefit significantly from embracing local competitions, even when they attracted international competitors.
He noted that beyond the sporting spectacle, the Great Chepsaita event had a wider social purpose, particularly in supporting and inspiring young people.
“This is not just a race but a race with a purpose to support our young people in society,” said Kipruto.
Event patron Farouk Kibet urged athletes to use the competition as a springboard to transform their lives through sport, noting that athletics offers opportunities beyond winning medals and prize money.
Kibet said the championships had grown from a simple idea into an internationally recognised competition, with its elevation to Gold Label status reflecting the progress made over the years.
“When we started, it was just a dream, but today we have reached the Gold Label level. This shows how far we have come and what athletics can achieve for our community,” said Kibet.
He challenged upcoming athletes to draw inspiration from established stars such as Kamworor, Gitonga and Kipruto, saying their achievements demonstrate the rewards of dedication, discipline and commitment.
Kibet also issued a stern warning against doping, insisting that the championships would not provide a platform for athletes involved in the use of prohibited substances.
“Train clean, win clean and respect your body. We will not allow athletes who engage in doping to compete in this race,” he said.
He urged athletes to uphold clean sport and protect the integrity of athletics, adding that the championships remained committed to nurturing talent, promoting discipline and developing positive role models among young people.