Ng’etich and Ebenyo to Headline Sirikwa Classic Cross Country in Eldoret
Daniel Ebenyo, the 2023 World 10,000-meter silver medalist and Agnes Ng’etich, the reigning world cross country champion, will be the star attractions at the fifth edition of the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country Continental Tour on Feb. 14 at Lobo Village in Eldoret, organizers said.
Both athletes arrive in Kenya buoyed by strong performances at the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida on Jan. 10. Ebenyo claimed bronze in 28:45, finishing behind Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo and Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi, while Ng’etich secured her first global title, winning the women’s race in 31:28.
Speaking at the launch of the event, Ebenyo confirmed his participation, returning to a course where he has been dominant. He is seeking a third consecutive Sirikwa Classic title after victories in 2024 and 2025, performances he credits with sharpening his competitiveness on the world stage.
“Winning the Sirikwa Classic challenged me and prepared me for greater success,” Ebenyo said, noting that the race played a role in his preparation for the world championships.
Ng’etich will also be back to defend her title after winning last year’s race in 32:42.
The Sirikwa Classic will feature children’s races across three age groups, an Under-20 competition, a 2-kilometer loop race and elite 10-kilometer races for men and women. Participation in the elite and Under-20 events will be by invitation only, while children’s races will be open through registration, according to race director Barnaba Korir.
Korir, who is also the first vice president of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, said the event offers some of the most competitive prize money on the local calendar. Winners of the elite races will earn 6,000 dollars, with additional prizes for Under-20 and 2-kilometer loop winners.
The race has received an 8 million shilling sponsorship boost from Absa Bank. Athletics Kenya officials confirmed that all World Athletics requirements have been met for the Sirikwa Classic to retain its Gold Label status, with organizers noting that the course will remain unchanged from last year.
