Korir hails Nairobi X-Country for 'shaping Kenya's athletics'

Athletics Kenya (AK) Executive Member and Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir has highlighted the exceptional potential of this week’s Nairobi Region Cross Country Championships.

 As the Nairobi Region AK Chairman, Korir buttressed the critical role the event plays in shaping the future of Kenyan athletics.

“Nairobi is unique,” Korir noted. “We host athletes from all corners of the country; different languages and diverse cultures, but with one shared goal: to compete and showcase Kenya’s finest running talent.”

The championships, scheduled for Friday, January 24, at the Nairobi West Prison Grounds, are a vital precursor to the National Cross Country Championships at Eldoret Sports Club. “This event is pivotal,” Korir stressed. “It’s where Nairobi selects its team for nationals. Let me assure you, Nairobi will deliver fierce competition.”

Korir praised the region’s up-and-coming athletes, particularly juniors from established athletics hubs like Riruta and Ngong. “These young athletes are showing incredible promise. Nairobi has a rich history of champions like Andrew Lorot and Helen Obiri, both products of Riruta Satellite Academy. It’s time to discover the next generation of stars,” he stated.

While acknowledging the traditional strongholds of North Rift, South Rift, Nyahururu, and Nyanza, Korir issued a friendly challenge: “These regions should prepare for tough competition from Nairobi. We have the talent, diversity, and spirit to dominate. From seasoned champions to promising juniors, we are ready to prove ourselves.”

At the same time Korir encouraged athletes training in Ngong and other areas to participate in large numbers, highlighting the importance of such events in preparing for international competitions.

“The Nairobi Region Cross Country is not just a race; it’s a platform to build strength and form as we gear up for the World Championships in Tokyo,” he added.

Sirikwa Cross Country: A Gold Label Event

Korir also celebrated Kenya’s growing reputation for hosting world-class competitive events. Notably, the Great Chepsaita Cross Country and the upcoming Sirikwa Cross Country have achieved Gold Label status under World Athletics. “This recognition speaks to our organizational excellence,” Korir said.

The Sirikwa Cross Country, scheduled for February, is another milestone in Kenya’s storied athletics history, further cementing the country’s standing as a global leader in distance running.

 National Cross Country Championships on February 8 in will be staged in Eldoret

The cross country season will then culminate with the Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour scheduled for February 23 at Lobo Village in Eldoret .