Defending champions are set to return to the 2026 Sirikwa Classic Cross Country, boosted by significant sponsor support.
Newly crowned World Cross Country champion Agnes Jebet Ngetich and bronze medallist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo will return to defend their titles at the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country on February 14.
During last year’s edition of the event, Agnes Ngetich delivered a masterclass in endurance by dominating the senior women’s 10km race in a time of 32:42.
Meanwhile, Daniel Simiu Ebenyo successfully defended his title on the challenging Lobo Village course, outclassing a deep field to stop the clock at 29:57.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News
14:49 - 23.12.2025
Faith Kipyegon Confirms Two Priorities as She Prepares for the 2026 Season
Faith Kipyegon is gearing up for the 2026 season with clear focus and determination after a record-breaking 2025.
Agnes Ngetich and Daniel Ebenyo to Return to Sirikwa
Speaking at the Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country launch, Agnes Ngetich expressed her appreciation to the organisers for keeping the event running and helping to develop the next generation.
“I thank Athletics Kenya for investing in this event because it is an opportunity for young athletes to nurture their talents. It will also be Valentine’s Day, and I can’t wait to receive flowers at the finish line,” Agnes Ngetich said.
On his part, Daniel Ebenyo explained his experiences competing at the Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country Championships, noting that his previous triumphs provided confidence, visibility, and momentum across his professional journey.
He explained that the qualities he got from the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country course later applied on a global stage.
08:05 - 17.01.2026
Noah Lyles Opens 2026 Season in Style as Trayvon Bromell and Vernon Norwood Await Next Test
Noah Lyles opened his indoor season with an eye-catching win, setting the stage for tougher tests ahead against fellow American stars Trayvon Bromell and Vernon Norwood.
Daniel Ebenyo added programme offered an ideal conditioning pathway toward an international assignment, culminating in podium success representing national colours.
“Winning the Sirikwa Classic in the previous two editions has been a major boost to my career. This competition challenged me and prepared me for the greater things in my career,” he said.
“It has played a significant role in my preparation for the World Cross Country Championships, where I won a medal for Kenya.”
Absa Bank Pump Millions to Support 2026 Sirikwa Classic Cross Country
08:04 - 20.01.2026
Ferdinand Omanyala Opens Up on Olympics Dream That Pushed Him Back to Ex-Coach
Commonwealth champion Ferdinand Omanyala admits the need to be in great shape ahead of the 2028 Olympics was behind his move to reunite with his former coach.
Absa Bank has transformed the Sirikwa Classic through a multi-year partnership that began with a Ksh 2 million investment in 2023, providing the essential support needed to elevate the race to a World Athletics Gold-level event.
Building on this foundation, the bank increased its commitment to Ksh 3 million in 2024 and significantly ramped up its involvement in 2025 with a Ksh 11 million title sponsorship.
For the upcoming 2026 edition, Absa has sustained its major role as a cornerstone of the championship by pumping in Ksh 8 million to support the event.