Kenyan Leaders Rally Behind Emerging Athletics Talent at Chepsaita Cross Country Run
Prof. Julius Bitok, praised the organizers while addressing the gathering where he pointed out that sport and education go hand in glove.
The great Chepsaita Cross Country Run. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth sang
The Kenya leadership has reiterated the importance of nurturing young athletic talents, lauding the country’s rich heritage in track and field during the 2025 Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run held at Chepsaita Secondary School in Turbo Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula lauded Kenyan athletes for putting the nation on the global sports map. “Because of our athletes, Kenya’s anthem resonates across international arenas more than that of any other country. Watching our young men and women excel internationally fills me with immense pride,” he said.
Wetang’ula acknowledged both the roles of legendary athletes and emerging stars in sustaining Kenya’s dominance in athletics. He urged leaders and stakeholders to continue supporting grassroots initiatives and create platforms that allow young athletes to develop their potential. He also called on Kenyans to embrace national unity and support government efforts aimed at socio-economic transformation.
In the same breath, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei underscored the role of succession planning in athletics. “We must innovate and prepare for the future, where space will be created for up-and-coming athletes to take the place of retiring seasoned athletes. We have to grow our talent pool to ensure Kenya maintains its competitive edge in the world,” he said. Koskei expressed optimism that the Chepsaita event will grow with increased numbers participating in subsequent editions.
Event Patron Farouk Kibet observed that the Masters category was left out of the competition this year as a deliberate move to bring in the young athletes to the fore. “This year we focused our attention on youth talent. Next year, the event will be even bigger, with new initiatives to encourage more athletes to participate,” he told reporters. Kibet also announced that winners in the Under-20 category would be jetting to Florida, where they will represent their country in the World Cross Country Championships, an initiative meant to boost their athletic talent and experience. He added that prize money awarded at the event would provide critical support for the development and future careers of these athletes.
The Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Prof. Julius Bitok, praised the organizers while addressing the gathering where he pointed out that sport and education go hand in glove. “This championship is very meaningful because it pursues dual goals: physical fitness and educational aspirations. Education is the key to the future, and every child should be encouraged to perform well academically,” he emphasized, citing consistency with the President’s efforts to improve educational opportunities throughout the country. The Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run continues to cement its reputation as a premier grassroots athletics platform, highlighting young talent while fostering unity among leaders, communities, and athletes, and promoting both sports and education in Kenya.
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