Organizers of the upcoming first edition of the Chepsaita Cross Country race have been told to be ready for a tough course.
The race in the high altitude region is scheduled for December 2, 2023.
During a visit to the course last week, race organizers revealed that it will have natural obstacles and terrains.
“It will be a tough course,” said Athletics Kenya (AK) Central Rift chairman Abraham Mutai.
Mutai further pointed out that the inaugural event will offer am exciting opportunity for athletes to the areas positioning and its high altitude.
Chepsaita is located at the border of four counties – Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Kakamega and Bungoma.
“Considering the altitude, it is very good for running and the athletes who will be competing are between five years to the seniors with lucrative prize; not all money but seniors will get farm machineries among others,” the AK official said.
Nurture young athletes
Moreover, AK executive member Barnaba Korir said that the race is one of the opportunities that has been given to young athletes in nurturing their talents from the grassroots.
“I walked on this course, and it is the most difficult one that I have come through. It is good for our athletes to come and see to prepare for the world cross country and Olympics,” Korir said.
He added that, “they should come and compete here ahead of the races next year.”
Similar sentiments were shared by race Chief Executive Officer Kennedy Tanui.
He said the Chepsaita Cross Country race will be a unique one because it will be on a high altitude area as well as a terrain ideal for training.
“This is one of the toughest courses this year that has all the terrains and the world obstacles, with hills and inclines. It is not a trail but a very tough race. We have many schools around expected to compete in large numbers,” said Tanui.
