Get ready for bigger and better Kip Keino Classic 2026, declares Korir
Kip Keino Classic Meet Director Barnaba Korir during the launch of the 2026 edition in Nairobi. Photo by Bernard Cheruiyot/Citizen Digital.
Audio By Vocalize
The countdown to the seventh edition of the Kip Keino Classic is officially on after the event was launched on Thursday in Nairobi, with organisers promising a bigger, faster and more competitive showpiece at the Nyayo National Stadium.
All eyes now turn to the Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour Gold meeting set for April 24, 2026, as preparations gather pace for what is shaping up to be a landmark edition.
Meet Director Barnaba Korir says the Local Organising Committee is keen to build on the momentum of previous editions.
“This year’s event will be bigger and more competitive. We are raising the standards across all areas to deliver a world-class meeting,” Korir said.
In a historic shift, the 2026 edition will, for the first time, be staged under the lights at the iconic Nyayo National Stadium — a move expected to enhance performance and fan experience.
“This marks a major milestone for us. Hosting the Kip Keino Classic in the evening brings a completely new atmosphere that will favour the athletes and the fans,” Korir added.
The meeting will also break new ground with the introduction of Under-20 races, as organisers look to nurture the next generation of talent.
Technical Director Kennedy Tanui confirmed that the U20 800m and steeplechase will feature on the programme. He also revealed the return of the 10,000m — an event that has been missing from most continental competitions.
In another major boost, the meet will adopt the WaveLight technology, an LED pacing system commonly used in elite Diamond League races. The system runs along the inside rail of the track at pre-set speeds, helping athletes maintain target times.
“We want to introduce WaveLight to make the competition more competitive,” Tanui explained. “With the evening conditions and this technology, we expect fast times in Nairobi. It will help athletes judge pace better and hit their targets.”
Beyond distance running, Kenya is steadily expanding its strength in sprints and field events, with the Kip Keino Classic playing a central role in that transition.
Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala headlines the elite -cast, alongside Zambia’s rising sprint star Muzala Samukonga, setting up what promises to be a thrilling 100m showdown.
Also confirmed are Olympic and World hammer throw champion Ethan Katzberg of Canada and Uganda’s Halima Nakaayi, the 2019 world 800m champion known for her composure in high-pressure races.
Korir hinted at an even deeper field ahead of the official start lists.
“We have a strong team of athletes lined up. We will release the full list in due course, but I can assure fans the competition will be very exciting,” he said.
All eyes now turn to the Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour Gold meeting set for April 24, 2026, as preparations gather pace for what is shaping up to be a landmark edition.
Meet Director Barnaba Korir says the Local Organising Committee is keen to build on the momentum of previous editions.
“This year’s event will be bigger and more competitive. We are raising the standards across all areas to deliver a world-class meeting,” Korir said.
In a historic shift, the 2026 edition will, for the first time, be staged under the lights at the iconic Nyayo National Stadium — a move expected to enhance performance and fan experience.
“This marks a major milestone for us. Hosting the Kip Keino Classic in the evening brings a completely new atmosphere that will favour the athletes and the fans,” Korir added.
The meeting will also break new ground with the introduction of Under-20 races, as organisers look to nurture the next generation of talent.
Technical Director Kennedy Tanui confirmed that the U20 800m and steeplechase will feature on the programme. He also revealed the return of the 10,000m — an event that has been missing from most continental competitions.
In another major boost, the meet will adopt the WaveLight technology, an LED pacing system commonly used in elite Diamond League races. The system runs along the inside rail of the track at pre-set speeds, helping athletes maintain target times.
“We want to introduce WaveLight to make the competition more competitive,” Tanui explained. “With the evening conditions and this technology, we expect fast times in Nairobi. It will help athletes judge pace better and hit their targets.”
Beyond distance running, Kenya is steadily expanding its strength in sprints and field events, with the Kip Keino Classic playing a central role in that transition.
Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala headlines the elite -cast, alongside Zambia’s rising sprint star Muzala Samukonga, setting up what promises to be a thrilling 100m showdown.
Also confirmed are Olympic and World hammer throw champion Ethan Katzberg of Canada and Uganda’s Halima Nakaayi, the 2019 world 800m champion known for her composure in high-pressure races.
Korir hinted at an even deeper field ahead of the official start lists.
“We have a strong team of athletes lined up. We will release the full list in due course, but I can assure fans the competition will be very exciting,” he said.
In a major boost, the seventh edition of the event today received KSh 35 million from title sponsor Absa Bank to support its marketing and hosting.
Join the Discussion
Share your perspective with the Citizen Digital community.
No comments yet
This discussion is waiting for your voice. Be the first to share your thoughts!