Abigael Wafula

Kibathi, who resides in Japan, said he is going back into training in preparation for the same.&nbsp;“My focus now shifts to the African Youth Games...I want to win the title,” Kibathi said.&nbsp;

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Samuel Kibathi wins the men&#39;s 8km Under-20 race Samuel Kibathi🥇 Kelvin Kiprop🥈 Gedion Kipngetich🥉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirikwaClassicCrossCountry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirikwaClassicCrossCountry</a> <a href="https://t.co/reua794YWR">pic.twitter.com/reua794YWR</a>&mdash; Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) <a href="https://twitter.com/athletics_kenya/status/1621836080210186240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

In the National Cross-country championships held in Ruiru on January 21, Kibathi clocked 23:12 to win the men's Under-20 8km race ahead of Simon Maiywa (23:54) and Shadrack Rono (23:32) who placed second and third respectively. He owed his success to adequate training. "One thing that has helped me a lot is intensifying my training," he said.

During last year’s World Under-20 Championships in Cali, Kibathi settled for sixth place in 14:07.82 in the 5000m. He noted that there was a lot he learnt from the championship. “I was always afraid to kick from the start…this was my greatest challenge. But now I know I’m good at that and I will utilise that technique,” he said.&nbsp;

He added that in the next three years, he would want to have achieved a lot in his athletics career including making his debut at the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.

“If I get a chance, I want to compete at next year's Paris Olympics. I would also want to compete at the Commonwealth Games and the Diamond Leagues,” he said.&nbsp;

Kibathi noted that he was unsure of his prospects at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary. “Currently, I reside in Japan and I do not know whether I will get a chance to go to Budapest,” he said.&nbsp;

Samuel Kibathi in action during the National Cross-country Championships in Ruiru on January 21, 2023

Samuel Kibathi in action during the National Cross-country Championships in Ruiru on January 25, 2023

The youngster said he looks up to two-time World 10,000m champion Joshua Cheptegei. He also revealed that his coach, Stephen Njenga, inspires him.&nbsp;

Kibathi added that his relocation to Japan is an added advantage in regard to his passion for athletics. He said there is improved training equipment which makes training easier.&nbsp;

“Life is good in Japan…everything that I want is at my disposal. I want to keep training and focus on running,” he concluded.&nbsp;

Samuel Kibathi leads the men's Under-20 8km race at the Sirikwa Classic Cross-country/ATHLETICS KENYA

The youngster said he looks up to two-time World 10,000m champion Joshua Cheptegei

Kibathi sets eyes on African title after Sirikwa X-country win

Nduta said she draws her inspiration from the three-time Diamond League winner. “She is my mentor...I like how she runs,” Nduta said.

Nduta, who trains in Nyahururu, on Saturday obliterated a strong field to win the race in 21:13. Maureen Jepkoech placed second in 21:14 ahead of Deborah Jemutai who finished third in 21:41.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lucy Nduta wins top honours in the women&#39;s 6km Under-20 race  1. Lucy Nduta🥇 2. Maurine Jepkoech🥈  3. Deborah Jemutai🥉 <a href="https://t.co/zzO2x5esg3">pic.twitter.com/zzO2x5esg3</a>&mdash; Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) <a href="https://twitter.com/athletics_kenya/status/1621823505724542976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

Her win came after a disappointing outing at the Athletics Kenya National Cross-country Championships in Ruiru (Saturday, January 21) where she was forced to settle for seventh place.

She revealed that she went back to the drawing board and worked on her weak areas ahead of the Sirikwa show. “My previous event was the National Cross-country and I did not perform well. After that, I went back to training and worked on my speed,” she said.

Virginia Nyambura competes in the 2000m steeplechase at Bishan Stadium of the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, August 23, 2010.

Nduta added that going forward, she will continue training as she awaits her next assignment. She added that she will also be hoping to make Team Kenya for the Africa Youth Games in Congo, Brazzaville.

“After this, I will keep training while waiting for my next race. Getting a chance to participate in the upcoming Youth Games will be a dream come true,” she said.&nbsp;

Virginia Nyambura celebrates after winning the 2000m steeplechase at Bishan Stadium of the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, August 23, 2010.

Lucy Nduta, the newly-crowned Sirikwa Classic Cross-country women’s Under-20 6km race champion has revealed she looks up to 2010 Youth Olympic Games 2000m SC champion Virginia Nyambura.

Nduta keen to emulate 2010 Youth Games 2000m SC champion Nyambura

Kite was handed a ban after the presence of prohibited substances Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) were found in her sample collected for testing back in May last year.

“The Athlete herein is charged with an Anti-Doping Rule Violation of Presence of a prohibited substance known as S1.1. Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS)/Androsterone, Adiols, Pregnanediol, 11-ketoetiocholanolone, Etiocholanolone (Etio), testosterone, 5a-androstanediol and epitestosterone contrary to the provisions of Article 2.1 of ADAK Anti-Doping Rules,” the ruling read in part.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">1/2 The Sports Dispute Tribunal has sanctioned GLORIA KITE CHEBIWOTT and STELLAH BARSOSIO for a period of two years - period of Ineligibility, with effect from 12th August 2022 and 17th August 2022 respectively. <a href="https://t.co/Bzm4FRK76U">pic.twitter.com/Bzm4FRK76U</a>&mdash; Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (@ADAKKENYA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ADAKKENYA/status/1622499128352681984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

Kite, however, from the ruling, denied that she negligently or intentionally consumed any prohibited substance with the intentions of enhancing her performance.

“The Respondent denied the charges and stated vide WhatsApp that she wasn't feeling well and sought treatment from a doctor and was subsequently 6 prescribed with several medications. She attached the doctor’s medical notes in her defense.”

Konstanze Klosterhalfen (GER), Gloria Kite (KEN), Sifan Hassan (NED), Margaret Chelimo Kipkemboi (KEN), Ejgayehu Taye (ETH) during the Kamila SKolimowska Memorial in Katowice, Poland, on August 6, 2022

Meanwhile, Barsosio, the 2021 Rotterdam Marathon champion was also banned after the presence of prohibited substance trimetazidine was found in her sample.

“Hormone and Metabolic Modulators/Trimetazidine which is prohibited under S4 of the 2022 WADA prohibited list is alleged to have been found in the Respondent’s urine samples. This is a non-specified substance and is prohibited at all times as per WADA Prohibited List of 2022,” the ruling read in part.

Kite and Barsosio will resume participation in both local and international events on August 12, 2024 and August 17, 2024.&nbsp;

The 2021 Ostia Half Marathon women's race podium finishers Joyce Chepkemoi Tele, Betty Chepkemoi Kibet and Gloria Kite during the award ceremony

Kite and Barsosio will resume participation in both local and international events on August 12, 2024 and August 17, 2024.

Kite, Barsosio handed two-year bans for anti-doping rule violations

Kipyegon, who last won a cross-country championship (World Athletics gold label race) at the 2017 World Cross-country championships, said the race was quite good but had some few challenges.

Kipyegon on Sunday destroyed a strong field to win the 10km senior women's race in 33:50 ahead of Commonwealth Games 3000m SC champion Jackline Chepkoech who timed 34:52. Zenah Jemutai finished third in 35:08.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Classy Faith Kipyegon, the double Olympic and World champion destroyed the field to win 10km senior women Faith Kipyegon 🥇 Jackline Chepkoech 🥈 Zenah Chemutai 🥉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirikwaClassicCrossCountry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirikwaClassicCrossCountry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirikwaClassicCrossCountry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirikwaClassicCrossCountry</a> <a href="https://t.co/4dcGOTQlKL">pic.twitter.com/4dcGOTQlKL</a>&mdash; Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) <a href="https://twitter.com/athletics_kenya/status/1621848307797528577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

“I have enjoyed myself starting the season with the cross-country. The race was quite tough but I was enjoying myself. I can say I have started the season on a good note,” she said, adding that her fans were also a source of her motivation as they cheered her on.

She also revealed that she her win came as her surprise. “I was not expecting to win this race. I really thank God for this. It has been my first race of the season,” she said.

She disclosed that her manager and coach are the ones who came up with the idea of the cross-country but she was initially afraid to give it a try after six years of not competing in the race.

Faith Kipyegon crosses the finish line to win the 1500m race at the Wanda Diamond League athletics meeting at the Louis II Stadium in Monaco on August 10, 2022. (Photo by VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

Kenya's Faith Kipyegon crosses the finish line to win the 1500m Women event at the Wanda Diamond League athletics meeting at the Louis II Stadium in Monaco on August 10, 2022. (Photo by VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

“My manager and coach advised me to try this out but I was a little bit afraid. I then decided to just go for it and I thank God all went well,” she said.

The three-time Diamond League Final winner said if all will be well, she will be more than willing to compete at next year’s edition of the event. “If I am healthy,&nbsp;you will see me here once again,” she said.&nbsp;

Faith Kipyegon wins gold in 1500m women's race during the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Orgeon

Faith Kipyegon crossed the finish line in 33:50 ahead of Commonwealth Games 3000m SC champion Jackline Chepkoech who timed 34:52. Zenah Jemutai finished third in 35:08. Caroline Nyaga crossed the line 10th in 35:54 as World Under-20 1500m silver medallist Purity Chepkirui fizzled out to finish 21st in 37:19.

I was not expecting to win this race, says Kipyegon

Kipyegon crossed the finish line in 33:50 ahead of Commonwealth Games 3000m SC Champion Jackline Chepkoech who timed 34:52. Zenah Jemutai finished third in 35:08. Caroline Nyaga crossed the line 10th in 35:54. World Under-20 1500m silver medallist Purity Chepkirui fizzled out to finish 21st in 37:19.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Newly crowned National Cross Country champion Charles Lokir produced an excellent performance to win the men&#39;s 10km senior neuor race. Charles Lokir 🥇 Josephat Kiprotich🥈 Dennis Kipngetich 🥉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirikwaClassicCrossCountry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirikwaClassicCrossCountry</a> <a href="https://t.co/Btje4tTpKR">pic.twitter.com/Btje4tTpKR</a>&mdash; Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) <a href="https://twitter.com/athletics_kenya/status/1621861945123999745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

In the men’s category, Lokir who won the race in 30:14 edged out Josephat Kiprotich to second place in 30:19.

Dennis Kipng’etich finished third in 30:21. <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/waithaka-says-sirikwa-x-country-will-be-great-build-up-to-kick-off-season/0sjevj7">World 10,000m silver medallist Stanley Waithaka </a>did not finish the race while former World Under-20 3000m SC champion Amos Serem settled for 25th position in 31:40.

In the women’s Under-20 6km women’s race, Lucy Nduta cut the tape in 21:13 ahead of Maureen Jepkoech who timed 21:14.

Charles Lokir leads the senior men's team during the AK National Cross-country Championships on at the Prisons Staff Training College in Ruiru on Saturday, January 21, 2023

Deborah Jemutai finished third in 21:41. In the men’s category, Samuel Kibathi won the race in 24:20 as Kelvin Kiprop and Gideon Kipng’etich settled for second and third places in respective times of 24:40 and 24:45.

In the Under-18 girl’s category, Yvone Chepchirchir won the race in 19:06. Faith Chepchumba and Miriam Chemutai finished second (19:11) and third (19:38) respectively. In the men’s category, Meshack Koech won the race in 28:04 ahead of Titus Kiprop and Andrew Akori.&nbsp;

Kenya's Faith Kipyegon reacts after winning the 1500m Women event at the Wanda Diamond League athletics meeting at the Louis II Stadium in Monaco on August 10, 2022. (Photo by VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)

Two-time World and Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon and National Cross-country champion Charles Lokir on Saturday, February 4, 2023 obliterated strong fields to win the senior women’s and men’s 10km races at the <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/fireworks-expected-at-sirikwa-x-country-meet-in-eldoret/9br81p1">Sirikwa Cross-country held at the Lobo Village in Eldoret. </a>

Kipyegon, Lokir reign supreme at Sirikwa Classic Cross-country

In his season-opening race at the Miramas Metropolis Meeting on Friday, February 3, 2023 in Miramas, France, Omanyala settled for second place in 6.60. He was edged out by Côte d’Ivoire’s Arthur Cisse&nbsp;who won the race in 6.57. Turkey’s Ertan Ozkan placed third in 6.68.

He added that the race was good and it was a great way to open the season.

“The race was good. I started with a very fast time this year…last year I started the season with a 6.63 so this is an improvement. I am happy…I am very happy about it,” the Africa 100m champion said.

Gold medallist Kenya's Ferdinand Omanyala celebrates during the medal ceremony for the men's 100m athletics event at the Alexander Stadium, in Birmingham on day seven of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, central England, on August 4, 2022. (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)

Gold medallist Kenya's Ferdinand Omanyala celebrates during the medal ceremony for the men's 100m athletics event at the Alexander Stadium, in Birmingham on day seven of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, central England, on August 4, 2022. (Photo b...

He also said he will definitely return to Miramas for next year’s race and hopefully he will have learnt some French words.

“Of course, I’ll come back next year…I cannot afford to miss this edition. I also hope I will manage to do an interview in French,” he quipped.

Focus now shifts to the <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/omanyala-to-kick-off-season-at-miramas-metropolis-meeting/s6t13mm">Mondeville Meeting in France set for February 8</a>. Omanyala had the company of Tyson Juma who could make the cut to the final after placing fourth (6.97) in his heat.

Meanwhile, the 1500m women’s race saw Josephine Chelangat and Vivian Chebet settle for second and third places in respective times of 4:11.80 and 4:14.35. Ludovica Cavalli of Italy won the race in 4:09.80.

In the 400m men’s race, Collins Omae settled for third place in 48.00 in his respective final. Wiseman Were also settled for third place in 47.99 in his respective final while Elkanah Chemelil placed fourth in 50.13.&nbsp;

Young athletes pose for a photo with Africa 100m champion Ferdinand Omanyala

The Commonwealth Games 100m champion placed second in 6.60

Omanyala elated to begin season on a high

Rudisha insisted that he is still an athlete. He has a decorated career which has seen him bag two Diamond League trophies and two Africa 800m titles and on top of that being a two-time Olympic and World 800m champion.

Rudisha who last raced internationally in 2017, suffered a bout of injuries which denied him a chance to represent the country afterwards.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Happy 10-year anniversary to my 1:40,91 World record in the final of 800m in London Olympics. <a href="https://t.co/FwVLj9dIjQ">pic.twitter.com/FwVLj9dIjQ</a>&mdash; David Rudisha OLY (@rudishadavid) <a href="https://twitter.com/rudishadavid/status/1557148072005844994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

“I have not retired…I am still an athlete. When time for retirement comes, I will make the announcement publicly,” Rudisha said.

Rudisha said at the moment he has ventured into mentoring young athletes with an aim of ensuring there is continuity in the sport. “I am still around. Currently, I help young athletes in training to see that athletics lives on,” he said.

Rudisha has held the 800m for close to 11 years and he believes the record can be broken. He won the 2012 Summer Olympics by leading from gun to tape in the race which saw him cross the finish line in 1:40.91. The event was held in London, United Kingdom.

Kenyan athlete David Rudisha with Kenyan flag

“The record is there to be broken. I know it’s not easy but it’s possible. With hard work and discipline, it can be done,” he said.

He also had some advice for the young and upcoming athletes. Rudisha said: “Being an athlete is not easy. It requires commitment, hard work and consistency in training.”&nbsp;

David Rudisha is a two-time Olympic Champion

Rudisha is a two-time World and Olympic 800m champion

World 800m record holder Rudisha says he is yet to retire

Omanyala will be competing in the 60m and he has a personal best time of 6.57 across the distance. However, the race will not be a walk in the park for the 27-year-old as it has attracted some of the top athletes from across the globe.

Omanyala will be lining up as the third fastest in the field after Côte d’Ivoire’s Arthur Cisse and Great Britain’s Ojie Edoburun.

Cisse is the fastest in the field with a personal best time of 6.53. He is the 2019 Africa 100m silver medallist. On his part, Edoburun has a personal best time of 6.56 and he is the 2017 European Under-23 100m champion.

<a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/omanyala-seeks-to-win-world-championships-100m-title-as-busy-season-kicks-off/y28hzce">Speaking on NTV (January 24), </a>Omanyala revealed he has great plans in this season as he looks to break the African 100m record, win the 100m title at the World Championships in Budapest and win the Diamond League trophy.

He has a busy indoor season lined-up for him including the Mondeville Meeting in France (February 8), Paris Indoor Meeting (February 11), Lievin Meeting (February 15) before travelling back to Kenya for the Weekend Meet at the Nyayo Stadium on February 24-25.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Say Hello to the Sprinting Boooyzzz! 😍🔥 100m Commonwealth Champion <a href="https://twitter.com/Ferdiomanyala?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ferdiomanyala</a> 100m Tyson Juma. 400m &amp; 200m National Champion <a href="https://twitter.com/marcusomae14?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@marcusomae14</a> 4x 400m Relay Commonwealth Bronze medalist <a href="https://twitter.com/WisemanWere1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WisemanWere1</a> <a href="https://t.co/iXR2LlpZB8">pic.twitter.com/iXR2LlpZB8</a>&mdash; TeamKenya (@OlympicsKe) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlympicsKe/status/1621147537045598214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

In Miramas, Omanyala will be joined by Wiseman Were, Collins Omae and Elkanah Kiprotich who will be competing in the 400m race. Tyson Juma is also in the mix.

In the women’s category, Vivian Chebet and Josephine Chelangat will be representing the country in the 1500m race.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the National Olympic Committee of Kenya president Paul Tergat will tonight sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Miramas, France for Team Kenya Pre-Games preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Tergat is in the company of NOC-K Secretary General Francis Mutuku and NOC-K treasurer Eliud Kariuki. Kenya's Ambassador to France Judi Wakhungu will also be in attendance.

Omanyala will be lining up as the third fastest in the field after Côte d’Ivoire’s Arthur Cisse and Great Britain’s Ojie Edoburun.

Omanyala to kick-off season at Miramas Metropolis Meeting

This will be Waithaka’s first race of the 2023 season and he hopes to exhibit a good run as he prepares for the next assignments.

“Yes, I am going for the Sirikwa meet. I am just looking forward to run well and display great performance. This will be a great build-up to open up the season for me,” Waithaka said.

Gold medallist Uganda's Joshua Cheptegei (C), silver medallist Stanley Waithaka Mburu (L) and bronze medallist Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo (R) pose on the podium during the medal ceremony for the men's 10,000m during the World Athletics Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon on July 17, 2022.  (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)

Gold medallist Uganda's Joshua Cheptegei (C), silver medallist Kenya's Stanley Waithaka Mburu (L) and bronze medallist Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo (R) pose on the podium during the medal ceremony for the men's 10,000m during the World Athletics Championship...

The 2018 World Under-20 5000m silver medallist also revealed that his training has been going on well and he is ready for the challenge. <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/fireworks-expected-at-sirikwa-x-country-meet-in-eldoret/9br81p1">The race has attracted some of the top athletes from within the country and without</a> including Eritrea’s Merhawi Mebrahtu, Burundi’s Oscar Niyonzima and Commonwealth Games 3000m SC bronze medallist Amos Serem of Kenya.

“My training has been going on well and so far, so good…everything is set. I am not under any pressure whatsoever and I am ready for the challenge,” he said.

Waithaka added that one of his major plans is to make the cut to Team Kenya for the World Championships in Budapest later this year where he hopes to compete in the 10,000m. The qualifying time for the 10,000m is 27:10.00 and Waithaka’s personal best time is 27:13.01.

“Going forward, I want to train hard and hit the qualifying time in the 10,000m in order to make Team Kenya for the World Championships,” Waithaka said.&nbsp;

Silver medallist Kenya's Stanley Waithaka Mburu poses on the podium during the medal ceremony for the men's 10,000m during the World Athletics Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon on July 17, 2022. (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Image...

This will be Waithaka's first race of the 2023 season

Waithaka believes Sirikwa X-country will be great build-up to kick off season

This event marks the third major cross-country competition in the country after the National Cross-country Championship held on January 21 and the recent Discovery Cross-country held on January 29.

Kipyegon will be the big attraction in the senior women’s 10km race. She is a two-time World Under-20 cross-country champion. However, the 29-year-old will face strong domestic opposition from 2016 World Half Marathon silver medallist Cynthia Limo and Judith Kiyeng. The 2019 Africa 1500m champion Quailyne Kiprop and former World Under-20 3000m silver medallist Zenah Jemutai Yego will also be in the mix.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour invites you to spectate the event on Saturday, 4th February. Come cheer and witness champions run for the win at Lobo Village, Kapseret in Eldoret. Mark your calendar! Get more info on <a href="https://t.co/BW5fHus4Ho">https://t.co/BW5fHus4Ho</a> <a href="https://t.co/1oNBggHYD6">pic.twitter.com/1oNBggHYD6</a>&mdash; Sirikwa Classic Cross Country (@sirikwaclassic) <a href="https://twitter.com/sirikwaclassic/status/1621067244276191232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

Some of the international contenders who will be lining up include Bahrain’s 2017 World marathon champion Rose Chelimo, Slovenian steeplechaser Marusa Mismas-Zrimsek and Romania’s Stella Rutto.

Waithaka, who leads the entries in the men’s race, will have his work cut out. National Cross-country champion Charles Lokir, looks poised to improve upon his fifth-place finish in last year’s edition of the event. The other two podium finishers at the recent National Cross-country Championships, Isaac Kibet and Dennis Kipng’etich, will also be in the mix.

Silver medallist Stanley Waithaka Mburu poses on the podium during the medal ceremony for the men's 10,000m during the World Athletics Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon on July 17, 2022. (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)

Former World Under-20 5000m champion Benson Kiplangat and Commonwealth Games 3000m SC bronze medallist Amos Serem are the other leading Kenyan entrants. The international contenders include Eritrea’s Merhawi Mebrahtu, Burundi’s Oscar Niyonzima, Norway’s Sondre Moen, Sweden’s Emil Millan de la Oliva and Turkey’s Hillary Yego.

The event, which last year was named in memoriam of Agnes Tirop, has changed its name this year to the Sirikwa Cross Country Classic. ‘Sirikwa’ is the name of the ancient tribe who used to live in Uasin Gishu before colonial times.

The Sirikwa Classic will be seen as an event to celebrate not only athletics but the culture and heritage of the North and Central Rift region. More than 10,000 fans are expected to turn up to witness the event.

Along with the senior 10km races, there will also be a mixed relay and events for U20, U18 and kids.

EUGENE, OREGON - JULY 18: Faith Kipyegon of Team Kenya reacts after competing in the Women's 1500m Final on day four of the World Athletics Championships Oregon22 at Hayward Field on July 18, 2022 in Eugene, Oregon. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images...

Two-time World and Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon and World 10,000m silver medallist Stanley Waithaka will be lining up.

Fireworks expected at Saturday's Sirikwa X-country meet in Eldoret

Kosgei is the 2020 London Marathon champion and she will be lining up with a life-time best of 2:14:04. On her part, Jepchirchir, <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/i-want-to-set-a-new-course-record-in-new-york-says-peres-jepchirchir/l3r33gp">the 2021 New York Marathon champion</a>, will be lining up with a personal best time of 2:17:16.

<a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/kipruto-kiptum-lead-star-studded-field-for-aprils-london-marathon/840lv95">This will be one of the greatest line-ups of female long-distance runners</a> as it has also attracted defending champion and world 10K record holder Yalemzerf Yeahualaw of Ethiopia. &nbsp;

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬 🌟 The most star-studded field in the history of elite women’s marathon running is headed to London 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LondonMarathon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LondonMarathon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EliteWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EliteWeek</a>&mdash; TCS London Marathon (@LondonMarathon) <a href="https://twitter.com/LondonMarathon/status/1621056327018487808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

In addition to the stellar trio, Olympic 10,000m and 5000m champion Sifan Hassan of Netherlands will be making her debut over the distance. Judith Korir, <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/kenya-secures-ten-gold-medals-at-the-world-championships-in-eugene-oregon/e6ygqzj">the world marathon silver medallist</a> will also be returning to the streets of London after last year's fourth place finish.

The race will not be a walk in the park for the Kenyan trio of Jepchirchir, Kosgei and Korir as it has also attracted other Ethiopians including 1500m world record holder Genzebe Dibaba, the 2016 Olympic 10,000m champion Almaz Ayana and the Berlin Marathon champion Tigist Assefa.

Ayana made her marathon debut at last year's Amsterdam Marathon where she ran a tactical race to win in 2:17:20, the fastest ever women’s marathon debut.

Brigid Kosgei crossing the finishing line of Chicago Marathon

Brigid Kosgei crossing the finishing line of Chicago Marathon. (The New York Times)

The field will also include Britain's&nbsp;Eilish McColgan, the Commonwealth Games 10,000m champion who will also be making her marathon debut. USA’s Emily Sisson, Australia’s Sinead Diver and Canada’s Natasha Wodak will also be in the mix.

Hugh Brasher, Event Director of the marathon, said: “This is quite simply the greatest women’s field ever assembled for a marathon – arguably the greatest field ever assembled for a women’s distance race. We have two reigning Olympic champions, three world record holders and multiple national record holders.

“It’s going to be a race the whole world will be anticipating and I can’t wait to see what happens on Sunday, April 23. We’ve had such a rich pedigree of incredible women’s results here in London. We have had world records and unforgettable performances from the likes of Ingrid Kristiansen, Paula Radcliffe and Mary Keitany. I am sure this amazing 2023 women’s field will provide another extraordinary chapter in the London Marathon’s rich and proud history of stunning races.”

In total, London Marathon elite women’s field will feature 10 women who have run inside 2:19 and five who have gone under 2:18.

Peres Chepchirchir finishes first at the 2020 Olympics Marathon

Jepchirchir will be joined by Brigid Kosgei and Judith Korir

Reigning Olympic marathon champion Jepchirchir confirmed for London Marathon

Kosgei has a life time best of 2:14:04 over the 42km distance and 1:04:49 in the 21km distance. She returns to the Middle East with the hope of improving her second-place finish that she settled for in 2020.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">نقدم لكم العداءة بريجيد كوسجي من كينيا والتي أحرزت أفضل نتيجة شخصية 64:28 ، ووصلت للمركز الثاني في <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%86%D8%B5%D9%81_%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AB%D9%88%D9%86_%D8%B1%D8%A3%D8%B3_%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AE%D9%8A%D9%85%D8%A9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#نصف_ماراثون_رأس_الخيمة</a> ، كما أنها حاملة الرقم القياسي العالمي في ماراثون شيكاغو 2019 وحصلت على الميدالية الفضية في أولمبياد طوكيو 2020. هل تعتقد أنها ستكون قادرة على تحطيم رقمها؟&mdash; Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon (@rakhalfmarathon) <a href="https://twitter.com/rakhalfmarathon/status/1620399701286858753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

Kosgei has a decorated running career which includes being the Olympic marathon silver medallist and 2017 Bogota Half Marathon champion. She is also the 2019 Bahrain and Houston Half Marathon champion.

She will be joining two-time <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/obiri-korir-confirm-participation-at-ras-alkhaimah-half-marathon/8ytst6x">World 5000m champion Hellen Obiri and World marathon silver medallist Judith Korir. </a>

Obiri, who has a personal best time of 1:04:22 over the distance, placed second in last year’s edition of the race after being edged out by Ethiopia’s Girmawit Gebrzihair. Gebrzihair won the race in 1:04:14.&nbsp;Sheila Chepkirui placed third in 1:04:36.

Hellen Obiri celebrates after winning a past race

___7142490___https:______static.pulse.com.gh___webservice___escenic___binary___7142490___2017___8___14___10___Hellen+Obiri

On her part, Korir is the 2021 Lugano Half Marathon champion with a personal best time of 1:05:28. She settled for fourth place in last year’s edition of the race in 1:05:28.

Meanwhile, in the men’s category, Daniel Mateiko will face-off Ethiopia’s Seifu Tura with the hope of a podium finish. Mateiko will be looking to improve on his sixth-place finish at last year’s edition of the race. He lines up with a personal best time of 58:26.&nbsp;

Brigid Kosgei wins the 2020 Women's London Marathon (Photo: Courtesy/Twitter)

Kosgei is the current women's world marathon record holder

Kosgei joins Obiri, Korir at Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon

Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum, the Valencia Marathon champion and fastest marathon debutant in history (2:01:53), will be competing against Ethiopia’s Kenenisa Bekele, the second-fastest marathoner with a life time best of 2:01:41.

In addition, <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/football/london-marathon-winner-amos-kipruto-speaks-on-close-friendship-with-eliud-kipchoge/y94lbbn">defending champion Amos Kipruto</a>, will join the duo in a quest of defending his title.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">𝘾𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 ⚡️ Four of the top five fastest men in history go head-to-head in London! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LondonMarathon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LondonMarathon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EliteWeek?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EliteWeek</a>&mdash; TCS London Marathon (@LondonMarathon) <a href="https://twitter.com/LondonMarathon/status/1620693692838285313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

Kipruto’s win at last year’s TCS London Marathon was the biggest victory of his career and his first Abbott World Marathon Major triumph. He also was second at last year’s Tokyo Marathon behind world record holder Eliud Kipchoge and third in the 2019 World Championships.

Kiptum and Kipruto will be joined by three-time World Cross-country champion and two-time New York City marathon champion <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/athletics/why-the-sirikwa-x-country-promises-to-be-a-thriller/fcrbfzr">Geoffrey Kamworor </a>and 2019 Vienna City Marathon champion Vincent Kipchumba.

National Police Service Geoffrey Kamworor celebrates his lead ahead of Daniel Simiu in 10km senior men on January 6, 2023 during the National Police Service National Cross Country Championship, at Ngong race Course, Nairobi. Photo/CHRIS OMOLLO Copyright: xChrisxOmollox

National Police Service Geoffrey Kamworor celebrates his lead ahead of Daniel Simiu in 10km senior men on January 6, 2023 during the National Police Service National Cross Country Championship, at Ngong race Course, Nairobi. Photo/CHRIS OMOLLO Copyrigh...

The Kenyan quartet will be competing against the crème de la crème of the marathon including World marathon champion Tamirat Tola from Ethiopia.

Tola will be one of several men aiming to prevent Kipruto from winning back-to-back titles. He won the 2021 Amsterdam Marathon and finished third at the 2022 Tokyo Marathon (behind Kipchoge and Kipruto) before winning his world title last summer.

Ethiopian duo of Birhanu Legese (PB 2:02:48) and Mosinet Geremew (PB 2:02:55) will also be in the field aiming for top honours.

Australia’s Brett Robinson returns to London after finishing eighth last year with an aim of improving his position. Another man to watch is 2018 Boston Marathon champion Yuki Kawauchi of Japan, who is also making his London Marathon debut.

Among the many British athletes competing in the 2023 London Marathon elite men's race are&nbsp;Sir Mo Farah and Emile Cairess and the duo is poised to make waves on the streets of the capital.&nbsp;

Kenya's Amos Kipruto celebrates after winning the men s elite race at the 2022 London Marathon in London, Britain on October 2, 2022.

Tola will be one of several men aiming to prevent Kipruto from winning back-to-back titles.

Kipruto, Kiptum lead star-studded field for April's London Marathon

This move has been approached in order to make the Kenya National Rally Championship more vibrant. This comes as good news to the passionate drivers whose cars could not initially meet the standards of the federation.

“Some time back, I created the taskforce that interviewed the drivers, sponsors and stakeholders. They agreed that we needed to relax certain rules so that we can have more people entering the sport,” Kimathi said.

He added: “For example, if you have a seat in a car that was homologated five years ago, it’s still a good seat and it’s safe. We have given extensions so that Kenyans can have the opportunity to enter their cars in the existing form as opposed to asking them to buy new equipment.”

Kimathi also noted that with this, he hopes to see renewed interests and more cars going to compete instead of being parked in the garages.

McRae Kimathi steers his Ford Fiesta ST Rally3 with Kenyan co-driver Mwangi Kioni during the SS18 stage of the 2021 Safari Rally Kenya near Hells Gate at Lake Naivasha, Kenya, on June 27, 2021. (Photo by TONY KARUMBA/AFP via Getty Images)

Meanwhile, he also said the ASN President Special Awards will look to also fete the people working behind the scenes going forward. “This special category will continue as we appreciate the people in the background who make sure that rally and motorsport thrives in Kenya,” he said.

Kimathi also revealed that they want to have sustainable event which will aim at environmental conservation. “For your information, all the 13 rounds of the <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/sports/other-sports/finn-driver-kalle-rovanpera-conquers-naivasha-to-win-2022-edition-of-wrc-safari-rally/5ee9rfl">World Rally Championship </a>are run on sustainable fuels. Kenya is so strategically positioned in terms of renewable energy. We are also in the process of planting 19 million trees and we have already started,” he said.&nbsp;

Karan Patel (R) and Tauseef Khan (L) pose for a photo with former president Uhuru Kenyattta during the Safari Rally Kenya 2022 which was held from June 23 to 26, 2022

Kimathi also noted that with this, he hopes to see renewed interests and more cars going to compete instead of being parked in the garages.

Good news for Kenyan drivers as federation relaxes certain rules

Politics

Local

World

News

Celebrities

Music

Movies

Entertainment

Sports 

Fashion

Beauty & Health

Relationships & Weddings

Food & Travel

Lifestyle

Domestic

International 

Business

Explore categories

Checkout our authors for the latest content across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulselive Kenya

Authors | Pulselive Kenya

| Pulselive Kenya

Read the latest news across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulselive Kenya

Breaking News & Top Stories | Pulselive Kenya

Pulse Kenya is the most followed news and entertainment platform in Kenya. It informs and engages young Kenyans around the clock and provides updates by the hour.

Pulselive Kenya

Search for the latest content across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulselive Kenya