Excitement builds as the Nyayo National Stadium gears up for the fifth edition of the Kip Keino Classic World Continental Tour Gold, scheduled for 20 April.
The official media launch took place at the stadium on Thursday morning, where attendees were encouraged to join in for a spectacular day of athletics, promising great entertainment both on and off the track.
Athletics Kenya President, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jack Tuwei, assured fans of an electrifying experience. “We invite everyone to witness the Kip Keino Classic, a unique event in Africa. Expect a thrilling competition as athletes vie for top honors,” he stated.
Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Tuwei also expressed gratitude towards all partners involved in the event since its inception in 2020, highlighting the continuous government support that has been critical in the planning stages of this competition.
This year’s competition will feature a star-studded line-up including Olympic 200m silver medalist Kenneth Bednarek, 2016 Olympics javelin champion Thomas Rohler, Olympic hammer throw champion Wojciech Nowicki, and the 2022 world hammer throw champion Pavel Fajdeck.
They will be joined by Kenya’s own athletics champions such as Commonwealth Games 100m champion Ferdinand Omanyala, World 800m champion Mary Moraa, and World 800m silver medalist Emmanuel Wanyonyi.
Race director Barnaba Korir encouraged national support, “We urge all Kenyans to fill the stadium, supporting these athletes as we look forward to hosting even more significant events in the future.”
Korir confirmed that the venue is on track with preparations, including minor repairs to the tartan track, which have been approved by World Athletics as meeting their standards.
Absa Bank Kenya, returning as the main title sponsor, has committed Ksh 40 million to the event. Moses Muthui, the bank’s Director of Consumer Banking, reiterated Absa’s dedication to Kenyan sports, “Over the last decade, Absa has invested more than Ksh 1.2 billion in various sports. We are committed to continuing this support, celebrating the stories that matter,” he said.
The event also welcomed Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Gladys Boss Shollei. PS Tum confirmed the government’s ongoing support for the Kip Keino Classic as part of its broader sports strategy.
Hon. Shollei praised the dedication of Kenyan athletes, “Our athletes consistently bring honor to our nation. It’s always a privilege to represent Kenya, the home of champions.”
This year marks the event’s return to the Nyayo Stadium, which hosted the inaugural edition in 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
