ABSA Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country: A Premier Race with Big Rewards and Community Impact
This year’s edition brings a significant increase in cash prizes, further elevating the status of cross-country racing in Kenya and beyond.
The highly anticipated ABSA Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country race is set to take place on February 22nd, promising an electrifying experience for athletes and spectators alike. Photo/Barnabas Korir.
By Joy Jeelagat
The highly anticipated ABSA Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country race is set to take place on February 22nd, promising an electrifying experience for athletes and spectators alike.
This year’s edition brings a significant increase in cash prizes, further elevating the status of cross-country racing in Kenya and beyond.
Sponsored by ABSA, this prestigious event is expected to draw top-tier athletes from both local and international arenas, providing a platform for elite competitors to showcase their talent.
The ABSA Sirikwa Classic has cemented its place as a key fixture on the athletics calendar, particularly for long-distance and cross-country specialists.
A major highlight of this year’s race is the impressive prize pool of 11 million shillings, making it one of the most lucrative cross-country events.
The competition will feature various categories, including races for athletes under 20 and amateur participants.
“The key events will involve under-20 and senior competitors,” stated Bernard Korir, emphasizing the event’s dedication to nurturing young talent while maintaining a fiercely competitive environment for seasoned professionals.
With such a substantial prize boost, the event is expected to attract some of the biggest names in the sport.
During the official launch of the ABSA Sirikwa Classic in Lobo, Uasin Gishu County, legendary Kenyan marathoner and former world champion Paul Tergat addressed a critical issue in athletics—doping.
A long-time advocate for clean sport, Tergat strongly condemned the use of performance-enhancing drugs, highlighting the damage it inflicts on Kenya’s reputation.
“Doping should have no place in our country. Every instance of doping tarnishes the reputation of our nation,” Tergat asserted.
His firm stance underscores the importance of fair play and integrity, values that align with the principles championed by ABSA and event organizers.
His message serves as an inspiration to aspiring runners, reinforcing the significance of hard work and natural talent.
Beyond sponsorship, ABSA is deeply committed to making a positive impact on local communities, particularly in Kapseret and Eldoret.
Julias Songok, ABSA’s regional manager, emphasized that the bank’s involvement goes beyond financial support—it is about fostering meaningful change.
“Sports is a powerful platform for promoting qualities like resilience, dedication, and discipline,” Songok stated. “We believe that supporting events like the Sirikwa Classic is an opportunity to inspire not only the athletes but also the communities around them to lead healthy, active, and disciplined lives.”
The ABSA Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country is more than just a race; it is a celebration of talent, sportsmanship, and community development.
With increased prize money, prestigious international participation, and a renewed focus on clean competition, this year’s event is poised to set new benchmarks in athletics.
As athletes from around the world prepare for this premier event, the values of fair competition, resilience, and community collaboration shine brighter than ever.
The ABSA Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country is not just an athletic contest—it is a movement. And the competitors are ready to make history.
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