Kenyan-Born Qatari Njoki to Challenge Agnes Ng'etich and Co at 2026 Sirikwa Classic Cross Country

A fortnight after clinching victory at the 35th edition of the Discovery Cross Country race in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, Kenyan-born Qatari Maryam Lufti Njoki is set to make a determined return to the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country.

The highly anticipated event will be staged on Saturday, February 14, at Lobo Village in Kapseret, Uasin Gishu County, drawing elite local and international athletes.

Maryam Njoki heads into the race brimming with confidence after her recent triumph, but her focus now shifts to improving on her previous outing at the Sirikwa course, a venue that once tested her resolve.

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The last time Njoki competed at the Sirikwa Classic was in 2023, when she finished 12th. At the time, she was still relatively inexperienced on the international cross-country circuit.

Three years later, she believes she has grown significantly in terms of strength, race tactics, and mental resilience.

“I last ran on this course back in 2023 when I had little experience compared to now. I want to come and try my best this time and improve my position,” said Njoki.

Her return to Kapseret is not solely about redemption. The race forms a crucial part of her preparations for the upcoming track season.

Cross-country competitions are often used by distance runners to build endurance and sharpen competitiveness ahead of track campaigns, and Njoki is keen to use the Sirikwa Classic as a springboard for bigger goals later in the year.

When she last featured on the course, she was known as Christine Njoki. Since then, she has switched allegiance to Qatar and adopted the name Maryam Lufti Njoki, marking a new chapter in her athletics journey.

Competing under a new flag, she continues to train in Kenya’s high-altitude environment while representing her adopted nation on the international stage.

Njoki will be among a number of foreign-based athletes battling for top honours, highlighting the growing international stature of the Sirikwa Classic.

The women’s 10km race promises intense competition, headlined by reigning World Cross Country champion Agnes Jebet Ng'etich. Ng’etich has been dominant on the global stage and will be eager to stamp her authority on home soil once again.

Uganda’s World Cross Country silver medalist Joy Cheptoyek also enters the race as one of the top contenders. Known for her strength and consistency, Cheptoyek will be determined to challenge for victory in what is shaping up to be a thrilling Valentine’s Day contest.

She will be joined by fellow Ugandans Scovia Chemutai, Martha Chemutai, and Loice Chekwemoi, the 2024 Chepsaita Cross Country champion, further strengthening Uganda’s presence in the field.

From the wider East African region, Tanzania’s Valeria Daghau and Monica Zanele are also expected to feature prominently, adding depth and regional rivalry to the race.

With established champions, emerging stars, and determined returnees in the mix, this year’s Sirikwa Classic Cross Country promises to deliver high-quality competition.

For Maryam Lufti Njoki, the race is an opportunity to showcase her progress, reaffirm her ambitions, and continue her steady rise in the world of distance running.

As athletes gather at Lobo Village on February 14, fans can expect fierce battles and memorable performances in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions of the Sirikwa Classic.