More than 20 countries have confirmed to compete at the third edition of Sirikwa Classic Gold World Cross Country tour as preparation has entered homestretch at Lobo Village in the outskirts of Eldoret town Uasin Gishu County.
The race slated for February 3rd has enlisted both local and international athletes from different nationalities ready to battle for top honours and prize money.
There are at least 20 countries that have already confirmed participation with the invite only race featuring 50 athletes in each category.
Speaking to the press after launch of the third edition in Eldoret, Race CEO Barnabas Korir said that they have received confirmation from international athletes from various countries.
"We will have athletes from South Africa, Poland, Uganda, Tanzania, Eritrea, USA training in Iten among others and Kenya too. This is not an event you want to miss if you live in Eldoret or even beyond."Said Korir.
Korir also disclosed that they have good prize money that befits the stature of the race.
“We are the leading in terms of prize money in gold label in the world, we have prize money totaling 15 million, we will pay them in dollars.” Said Korir.
Local Organising Committee chairman Ibrahim Hussein affirmed that preparations are 90 percent complete with a week left until the event.
Hussein explains that there are some changes to the course, they have removed some obstacles and replaced them with more friendly ones to athletes.
He said they will erect a VIP area, finish area, there will be a podium and a media center. There will be entertainment on the course.
" The athletes who participated in the inaugural edition were not comfortable with the muddy patches so we have removed the mud and put water jump like a steeplechase now we have removed water jump and replaced it with other obstacles which will spice up the event." Said Hussein, who is also technical director.
According to Hussein , the designers of the course are keen to produce a thrilling event in which a 2km meandering loop will have tents which runners will run through as spectators cheer them from each side.
We have maintained two artificial hills, incorporated some tents. We have very big tents where athletes will run through. We shall have spectators and coaches on each side of the tents with music, soft drinks. It will be very interesting.” added Hussein.
