Faith Kipyegon headlines star-studded 2025 Sirikwa Classic showdown as world stars battle for glory

The Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country Championships will feature a star-studded lineup of world champions, record holders, and rising talents competing for dominance in Eldoret.

The fourth edition of the Sirikwa Classic Cross-Country Championships will be coming up on Saturday, February 22, with a star-studded line-up including world record breakers, and Olympic and world medallists.

Senior women’s 10km race

The senior women’s 10km race is certainly not one to miss since 1500m world record holder Faith Kipyegon and 10km world record-holder Agnes Jebet Ngetich will be locking horns at the Lobo Village in Eldoret.

Faith Kipyegon started her 2023 season at the Sirikwa Classic and she managed to attain a series of milestones including breaking three world records, the 1500m, 5000m and one mile. She also won gold medals in the 1500m and 5000m at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

In 2024, Faith Kipyegon had a late season opener, competing at the Kenyan Olympic trials due to an injury but this season promises to be much better as she will be competing in the cross country. Her main goal will be to, of course, reclaim her title.

Usain Bolt has expressed disappointment in Yohan Blake and others for failing to follow Coach Glen Mills’ guidance, which led to their struggles.

As quoted by World Athletics, Faith Kipyegon revealed that her preparations for the outdoor season are taking shape nicely and competing in the cross country will help in her build-up before her track season opener at the Diamond League Meeting in Xiamen.

“I’m currently in my build-up, training towards the outdoor season ahead. Cross country is where athletics started for me as a young girl and it’s always motivating to run on home ground,” Faith Kipyegon said.

On her part, Agnes Ngetich revealed her decision to compete in the cross country was also for build-up purposes as she noted that her main focus will be on the Grand Slam Track League and making the Kenyan team to the World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

Other women who will be lining up for the women’s 10km race include Hellen Ekalale, Janeth Chepngetich, and the national cross-country champion Brillian Jepkorir Kipkoech.

Cintia Chepngeno and world half marathon bronze medallist Catherine Amanang’ole have also been included in the mix.

Senior men’s 10km race

However, that is not all, the men’s 10km race will also be one to marvel at following the strong field that has been assembled.

World Under-20 cross-country bronze medallist Matthew Kipkoech Kipruto has been impressive so far and will be looking to continue the hot streak to Sirikwa.

AFC Leopards vs Gor Mahia fixture originally scheduled for November 24, 2024 was postponed.

Kipruto has already proven himself, winning the Cinque Mulini and Festival du Cross-Country victories. He also rounded up the podium at the Great Chepsaita Cross Country.

However, his outing will not be a walk in the park since he will be lining up against strong opponents including former world 5000m silver medallist Jacob Krop, former world 10,000m silver medallist Stanley Waithaka Mburu, former Sirikwa Classic winner Samwel Chebolei Masai, and Kibiwott Kandie.

Others who have confirmed participation in the race include Weldon Langat, Leonard Bett and Gideon Rono. The Ugandan charge will be led by Keneth Kiprop and Martin Kiprotich Magengo.

Djed Spence’s recent performances could fast track his feature for the England national team as Harambee Stars miss out.

Women’s under-20 6km race

The women’s under-20 6km field is headlined by World U20 Championships 3000m steeplechase bronze medallist Diana Chepkemoi, Cynthia Chepkirui and Sharon Chepkemoi.

Men’s under-20 8km race

The men’s race will see Kevin Kiprop chase victory as he faces opposition from serial rival Abraham Cherotich of Uganda.

Emmanuel Wanyonyi headlines the 2km event, having been very impressive in his recent cross country races.