Agnes Ngetich Banks on 'First Love' Magic to Defend 2026 Sirikwa Classic Title

Reigning champion Agnes Jebet Ngetich is set to defend her 10km title this weekend on home soil at the fifth edition of the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country.

Now a prestigious World Athletics Gold Label event, the race will see Ngetich arrive in Eldoret with high confidence following a remarkable season start, which included a World Cross Country victory in the United States last month.

“Racing at home is always special. I love running in Eldoret, and defending my title means a lot to me,” Ngetich stated. “Right now, my focus is on my own race, but running with my colleagues also pushes all of us to be better.”

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For Agnes Ngetich, cross country is more than just a discipline, as it is a fundamental passion that first ignited her competitive spirit as a young girl.

While she has found success on both the track and the road, the unpredictable and demanding nature of cross country remains her first love.

“Cross country has always been my first love,” she told Sirikwa Classic media. “On the track, it’s about rhythm and speed, and on the road, it’s about pace. But in cross country, you need everything: strength, speed, and the ability to adapt every moment.”

Agnes Ngetich thrives on the sport's inherent unpredictability, where rolling hills, muddy sections, and sharp turns demand constant strategic adjustments and resilience.

“There’s freedom in cross country, running on natural terrain. That’s what makes it beautiful. You need to be ready for anything the course throws at you,” she added.

Agnes Ngetich’s return to the Sirikwa Classic is not just a title defence but also a homecoming for a newly crowned world champion.

Fresh from her triumph at the World Cross Country Championships, she enters the race with significant momentum and renewed self-assurance.

“We’ve made good plans with my coach, and this race fits very well into my season,” Ngetich said. “After winning the world title, racing here at home feels right. I want to give back to Kenya. I’m healthy and training well, so I expect good things. A strong performance here will motivate me and build confidence for the season ahead.”

Her participation underscores a commitment to her home country and the local running community, as she aims to inspire a new generation of Kenyan athletes.

The Sirikwa Classic Cross Country is renowned for its demanding course, and this year is expected to be no different. The Eldoret terrain, with its natural obstacles and rolling hills, has consistently tested top athletes from around the globe.

While Agnes Ngetich’s familiarity with the course is an advantage, she remains aware of the challenge ahead.

“I know the course well, but cross country is never easy. Every race is different, and you must be ready for anything,” she noted.

The event is set to attract a world-class field, including international Gold Label competitors and elite Kenyan runners, all vying for the top spot. With the defending champion in the lineup, spectators can anticipate a thrilling and fiercely contested race.

Beyond the pursuit of victory, Agnes Ngetich sees the Sirikwa Classic as an opportunity to give back and promote the sport in Kenya. She hopes her performance will encourage young athletes, especially girls, to embrace running with dedication.

“Running here at home is special because it allows me to connect with the community and inspire the next generation,” she said. “I want to show them that with hard work and discipline, anything is possible.”