Kip Keino Classic Track Certification on Course as Organisers Reveal Completion Timeline

World Athletics Continental Tour events director Owen Malone has provided an update on the expected timeline for the readiness of the track at Nyayo National Stadium ahead of the Kip Keino Classic scheduled for April 24.

As one of Kenya’s premier track and field events, preparations for the Kip Keino Classic are already underway, with particular attention being given to the track certification process as organisers race against time ahead of next month’s competition.

The newly installed tartan track at Nyayo National Stadium was completed in October 2025 as part of a major renovation project spearheaded by the Kenya Defence Forces, aimed at readying the venue for the 2025 African Nations Championship and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, March 26, Owen Malone stated that preparations for the Kip Keino Classic had progressed smoothly following several days of collaboration with Sports Kenya and Athletics Kenya.

He explained that key operational areas, including competition logistics, timing systems, broadcast arrangements and overall event planning, had been thoroughly reviewed and fine-tuned to meet international standards.

Malone added that the coordination between all stakeholders had been highly effective, with most of the critical elements already in place well before the event date, putting organisers in a strong position as they move into the final stages of preparation.

“It has been a very fruitful three days working alongside Sports Kenya and Athletics Kenya in preparation for the event. We have been focusing on the sports equipment, the timing equipment, the television and the event preparation, and everything is looking very well, and we are ahead of schedule with what we have been doing here,” he said.

He further noted that significant progress had also been made in the certification process of the track at Nyayo National Stadium ahead of the Kip Keino Classic.

Owen Malone explained that detailed assessments had already been carried out by a technical surveyor to ensure the facility meets World Athletics standards, with results indicating that requirements are being met as expected.

Malone added that the process remains on course within the required timelines and expressed confidence that all necessary approvals will be secured, while also expressing satisfaction with the overall progress made so far.

“Another aspect of the site has been the measurement of the track for certification by World Athletics, and we had a surveyor come in, and everything is looking good, and the track certification is very well within the time frame, and I’m very confident that all is well. I’m very happy with the progress now,” he said.

He explained that Nairobi’s conditions give the Kip Keino Classic a competitive edge in attracting elite sprinters, noting that many athletes are already familiar with and drawn to the environment.

He added that the certification process for the track at Nyayo National Stadium is progressing steadily, with the initial assessment report set to be submitted to World Athletics, after which approval could be granted within a few weeks if all requirements are met.

“Actually, we have a major advantage with Nairobi, and the sprinters know that’s why it’s easier for us to attract top-level sprinters. Next week will be the first measurement report sent to World Athletics, and then it could be certified within two to three weeks,” he said.

Meanwhile, top athletes have already signed up for the 2026 edition of the Kip Keino Classic, with Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala and 400m national record holder Mercy Oketch leading the charge.