The Sirikwa Classic 2025 is set to deliver an electrifying showdown as Faith Kipyegon and Agnes Jebet Ngetich prepare to battle it out in Eldoret. As the final Gold meeting in this season’s World Athletics Cross Country Tour, the event promises intense competition featuring world-class runners on the outskirts of Eldoret Town this Saturday (22).
Faith Kipyegon: Aiming for Cross Country Glory
Three-time Olympic 1500m champion and four-time world champion, Faith Kipyegon, is returning to reclaim the title she won in 2023. That year was a milestone for the Kenyan sensation, who shattered the world 1500m, mile, and 5000m records, cementing her place among the all-time greats.
“I’m currently in my build-up, training towards the outdoor season ahead,” said Kipyegon, who is also set to debut at the Wanda Diamond League in Xiamen on April 26 in the 1000m race. “Cross country is where my athletics journey started, and it’s always motivating to run on home ground.”
The 31-year-old athlete remains the one to beat in the 10km senior women’s race, where she will face off against some of the sport’s most formidable challengers.
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Agnes Jebet Ngetich: The 10km World Record Holder
Ngetich, known for setting the world 10km record, has steadily climbed the ranks in long-distance running. After placing fourth at the 2024 World Cross Country Championships, she looks to start 2025 with a statement victory.
“I am excited to open my season at the Sirikwa Cross Country. This is the first step in a big year ahead, and I am ready to test my form and give my best on home soil,” said Ngetich.
The Rising Stars in the Women’s Race
While Kipyegon and Ngetich are the headline names, the women’s 10km senior race will also feature several rising stars:
- Loice Chekwemoi – The African 3000m steeplechase champion and Great Chepsaita Cross Country winner.
- Hellen Ekalale – 10K Valencia Ibercaja by Kiprun winner.
- Janeth Chepngetich – All-African Games 10,000m champion.
- Brillian Jepkorir Kipkoech – Kenya’s national cross-country champion.
- Cintia Chepngeno – African cross-country champion.
- Catherine Amanang’ole – World half-marathon bronze medallist.
Athletes from Uganda, Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Czechia will also be competing, ensuring an internationally competitive field.
Matthew Kipkoech Kipruto Eyes Victory in the Men’s 10km Race
The men’s 10km senior race is expected to be a battle of endurance and strategy, with Matthew Kipkoech Kipruto being one of the frontrunners. The 19-year-old world U20 cross country bronze medallist currently sits second in the World Cross Country Tour standings with 3680 points, trailing leader Rodrigue Kwizera of Burundi by just 40 points.
A victory at home on Saturday would solidify his ranking and cap off an impressive season.
Elite Contenders in the Men’s Field
Kipruto will face a deep field of Kenyan and international talent, including:
- Jacob Krop – 2022 World 5000m silver medallist.
- Stanley Waithaka Mburu – 2022 World 10,000m silver medallist.
- Samwel Chebolei Masai – 2022 Sirikwa Classic winner.
- Kibiwott Kandie – Half marathon specialist.
- Weldon Langat – A rising cross-country contender.
- Leonard Bett – Steeplechase champion.
- Gideon Kipkertich Rono – Ranked seventh on the tour standings.
Uganda’s Keneth Kiprop and Martin Kiprotich Magengo will also be strong challengers, alongside Ethiopia’s Adehena Kasaye and top athletes from Tanzania, Germany, Ukraine, Czechia, Poland, and India.
U20 Races to Watch
The women’s U20 6km race will be a showcase of young talent, featuring:
- Diana Chepkemoi – World U20 Championships 3000m steeplechase bronze medallist.
- Cynthia Chepkirui – National and Great Chepsaita champion.
- Sharon Chepkemoi – Top finisher at Cross Internacional de Italica.
The men’s U20 race will be headlined by Kevin Kiprop, the world U20 5000m champion, who is looking to continue his stellar performance following victories at the Great Chepsaita Cross Country and national championships.
Uganda’s Abraham Cherotich will also be among the challengers.
The Sirikwa Classic is more than just a race—it’s a premier cross-country event that has helped shape the careers of many elite athletes. As the final Gold-level race in the World Athletics Cross Country Tour, it carries significant weight for global rankings and upcoming competitions.
For Kenyan fans, this is an opportunity to witness their top athletes competing on home soil, showcasing the nation’s endurance running dominance. The flat yet challenging course in Eldoret offers a perfect stage for athletes to test their early-season form before transitioning to track and road races.
