Christened as Home of Champions, Elgeyo Marakwet will be hosting top cream runners as 5th and last leg of Athletics Kenya Cross country Championships this Saturday 4th January at Iten Sports ground.
As a county well known for producing top runners across the world, the event is expected to bring together all runners, first being the year opener and secondly the last in the series.
North Rift Athletics Kenya Public relations officer Boniface Tiren was optimistic that the number of athletes ay surpass their expectations because of the nature of the county.
“This is where champions are made and running at home is a great opportunity for them to showcase their talent on home soil,” said Tiren.
He added that all preparations have been completed awaiting the action to open the year.
“We are opening the year and this was a great opportunity for us after A.K decided that we host the last event. It is a privilege for us,” added Tiren.
Among top athletes include former world cross country champion Irene Cheptai who comes from the area, world under 20 5,000m champion Edward Zakayo among others.
The county prides for hosting former world marathon record holder Wilson Kipsang, women’s only marathon record-holder Mary Keitany, World marathon record holder Brigid Kosgei among others.
Junior athletes are also expected to give a healthy competition as they seek positions for July’s world under 20 championships to be staged at Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani.