Athletics Kenya apply to upgrade Kip Keino Classic to Diamond League status

BREAKING: Athletics Kenya apply to upgrade Kip Keino Classic to Diamond League status

Abigael Wafula 11:20 - 05.05.2023

AK President hinted at confirmation of the same in 2024.

Athletics Kenya have petitioned the World Athletics and organizers of the Wanda Diamond League to upgrade the annual Kip Keino Classic to Diamond League status.

AK president Jack Tuwei revealed on Friday morning during the pre-race briefing of the fourth edition of the Kip Keino Classic at Kasarani stadium.

There are 14 legs of the circuit currently with only one African country, Morocco, given the right to host the Diamond League. With that, Tuwei strongly believes that places Kenya at an added advantage to become the second African nation to be added to the circuit. 

"We have applied to upgrade this event to a Diamond League Meeting and so far, things are looking up. You never know, next year we might be gathering here to talk about a different story. Let us pray that our bid is approved," he said. 

It is unclear if AK has sufficiently deliberated on Tuwei's pronouncement considering the abruptness with which its announcement has been made. There were no hints in the run-up to Friday morning's huge proclamation. 

Kenya also became the first African country to be given the right to host a Continental Tour Gold series in 2020 before Botswana joined the series and held its first event this year. 

Tuwei was impressed by the event in Botswana and urged more African countries to come on board and also bid to host major events. 

As a trailblazer of the event and having the ability to host it for the fourth year running, he believes any African country also has the capability of hosting international events. 

"I was happy to see Botswana host the event for the first time and it was a great success. Many sports stars competed there and it is a sign that Africa can also host major events. I am proud because we were the first African country to be given the rights and now others are following suit," he said. 

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