Chepsaita: The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for Athletics Kenya (AK) has completed preparations for the third edition of the Chepsaita Cross Country Run, scheduled for December 6, 2025, at Chepsaita Grounds, Chepkemel Secondary School in Turbo Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County. This year’s event has drawn participants from 41 nationalities, exceeding the World Athletics recommendation of five, marking the most global turnout in the event’s history.
According to Kenya News Agency, the race, themed ‘Run for Education,’ aims to support children from poor and vulnerable backgrounds by sponsoring their access to education through athletics. Athletics Kenya Nairobi Region Chairman and Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir confirmed that preparations are ahead of schedule, noting the event’s rapid growth in the athletic world. Korir expressed gratitude to event patron Faruk Kibet and the Chepsaita community for elevating the race to international status and relayed support from AK President Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Jackson Tuwei, who recently visited the venue.
Korir announced that registration for senior men, senior women, and under-20 categories had closed three weeks ahead of the event, in line with World Athletics regulations. Nearly 100 elite athletes from Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, and Europe have already secured slots. He stated that the event has reached a level comparable to major international competitions, with participation projected to reach up to 10,000 athletes across all age groups. Youth categories spanning ages 5 to 15 are also fully booked.
Organizers have finalized all logistical preparations and implemented new course enhancements to meet global standards and ensure athlete safety. For the first time, tented accommodation will be available on-site for visiting international athletes. Korir highlighted the success of the ‘Run for Education’ initiative, confirming that funds have been disbursed to all 22 beneficiary schools. He emphasized that the community will be informed on event day about how the program uplifts their children.
Event patron Faruk Kibet reiterated Korir’s remarks, revealing significant upgrades in the event’s organization and increased investment to enhance competition standards. More than Sh22 million has been allocated to support needy learners, with each of the 22 schools receiving one million shillings to assist 100 vulnerable children. Kibet detailed that each child will receive ten thousand shillings upon completing their education.
Kibet also announced major changes in the competitive structure, including an increase in prize money from Sh100,000 to Sh750,000 for both men and women. He stressed strict anti-doping rules, mandating that all winners undergo testing before receiving their prizes. Kibet insisted on discipline, respect, safety, and proper conduct from fans and participants, with designated spectator areas and enhanced security measures in place.
As part of his personal commitment to nurturing young talent, Kibet pledged to sponsor two young athletes-a boy and a girl-to travel to Florida for the World Cross Country Championships, covering all travel and accommodation costs. He dismissed criticism around event logistics, urging the public to focus on the positive transformation the race brings to the community. Kibet expressed hope that Kenyan athletes will reclaim glory this year after Uganda and Ethiopia dominated the previous year’s podium.
With preparations complete and anticipation building, the Chepsaita Cross Country Run is expected to attract families, recreational runners, rising stars, and elite athletes in what promises to be the biggest edition yet.
