Chepsaita Cross Country Run Scholarship Programme Set to Reach 7,000 Students

Speaking during the official media launch of the 2026 Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run on Thursday, November 5, 2026, race director Barnaba Korir said the event has evolved beyond athletics into a platform for education, talent development and community transformation.

Korir noted that what began four years ago as a sporting initiative has steadily grown into a broader social impact programme aimed at strengthening education opportunities while nurturing athletic talent.

“Our guiding theme, Running for Education, captures the heart of this vision. We believe that nurturing champions must go hand in hand with investing in their education and future,” said Korir.

According to the race director, the scholarship programme has become one of the event’s most significant achievements, supporting thousands of learners while improving access to education in the Chepsaita area.

Impact of Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run

He highlighted visible progress at the grassroots level, citing the growth of Chepsaita Senior School, whose enrolment has increased from about 200 students to 1,000 students. The initiative has also supported investments in school infrastructure, water access projects and annual medical outreach programmes.

Korir said the impact demonstrates how athletics can drive development beyond competition and produce lasting benefits for local communities.

He credited the success of the programme to the support of race patron Farouk Kibet, whom he described as instrumental in advancing the event’s vision of combining sports, education and community development.

“His determination to channel the power of athletics towards education, talent discovery and community development deserves the highest appreciation,” Korir said.

Farouk Kibet’s pledge on Chepsaita dispensary

As preparations for the 2026 edition gather pace, Korir said organisers are focused on strengthening the race’s international profile while expanding opportunities for children and communities through athletics.

“The Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run is not just about champions, medals and finishing times. It is about classrooms filled, talent discovered, opportunities created and futures transformed,” he said.

On his part, race founder Farouk Kibet hinted at plans to enhance healthcare services within the Chepsaita area. He admitted that health facilities within the area needed improvement to better serve the people, especially mothers.

“This Chepsaita dispensary, in God’s grace, I will elevate it to another level for enhanced maternity services,” Kibet said.

He also challenged athletes who have registered to participate in this year’s race to train hard, cautioning them about the tough terrain.

1,600 elite athletes are expected to battle for the top prizes set at Ksh 750,000 for winners in the 10km elite women’s and men’s race, while runners-up will walk away with Ksh 500,000. Athletes who finish third will be rewarded Ksh 350,000.