Double Olympics marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge and two time world marathon champion Abel Kirui have urged young athletes to register in large numbers to compete at the second edition of the Great Chepsaita Cross Country championships set for December 7th at the Chepsaita in Uasin Gishu County.
Speaking on Saturday September 21st during the registration drive at the Chepkemel centre, the marathoners said such local races are important as a build up to the major international races.
The event, which was improved from Bronze, last year to gold this year is set to attract many foreign athletes who have been invited to take part.
“This is one of the great events we have in the country as a build up for major events. For me, the future is great and I have a lot in my mind. I have a lot with my team and in the future there will be goodies,” said Kipchoge.
Race Director Barnaba Korir said the 2024 edition had attracted a huge interest from athletes and enthusiasts and the regoisration drive will help more to come forward and be part of the larger family.
“Last we recorded good outing with great results and we are planning to improve on this year. We had a good start and as a result of that performances, we have come up with a number of initiatives that will help the athletes who are in school,” said Korir.
“The course is one of the toughest will offer athletes preparing for global contests, from Indoor, to World Cross Country and World Championships and even the marathons,” he added.
Patron Farouk Kibet said that the growth of the race will ensure that children get education, medication and other amenities that they have been lacking in the area.
“Our running has a purpose, which is to ensure that our young people get quality education and health. We run to ensure the future of our young people is secured,” he said.
The registration drive was also attended by numerous legislators led by the National Assembly majority leader Kimani Inchung’wa, chairman of Parliamnatry sports committee and Webuye East MP Dan Wanyama among others who urged Kenyans and foreign athletes to invest in the sport and run the race come December 7th.