The annual Kericho Cross Country is set to return in 2024, bringing together some of the finest athletes from Kenya and beyond. The competition, known for attracting elite runners and emerging talents, will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Kericho Teachers Training College. With registration already ongoing, excitement is building for this prestigious event.
The 2024 edition is expected to feature over 500 athletes competing across multiple categories, including the 10km race, mixed relay, and the masters race for participants aged 50 and above. The total prize pool for this year’s event has been set at Ksh. 1.19 million, offering a substantial incentive for top performers.
In this article, we’ll break down the event’s key details, the various race categories, and how you can register. We’ll also look at the prize money distribution and the significance of this race in Kenya’s athletics calendar.
Event Date and Venue
The 2024 Kericho Cross Country is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 5, 2024. The race will be hosted at the Kericho Teachers Training College, a location known for its supportive terrain and ideal conditions for cross-country running. This venue, combined with the event’s rich history, makes Kericho Cross Country one of the premier athletic events in the region.
Registration Process and Locations
Registration for the event is already in progress and can be completed at the following locations:
- Kiprugut Chumo Stadium (formerly Kericho Green Stadium) in Kericho
- Country Star Hotel in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County
Athletes looking to participate are encouraged to register as soon as possible to secure their spot. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a community runner looking for a challenge, the Kericho Cross Country offers something for everyone. The competition is also a stepping stone for many athletes aiming to make a mark on the national and international stage.
Race Categories: A Diverse Offering for All Competitors
The 2024 Kericho Cross Country features three main race categories, ensuring that there is something for runners of all ages and skill levels:
- 10km Race: The marquee event of the competition, the 10km race is open to both men and women. It is expected to attract some of the best runners from Kenya and beyond. The 10km race will serve as a platform for elite athletes to showcase their talents and for emerging runners to make a name for themselves in the competitive world of long-distance running.
- Mixed Relay: The mixed relay is designed to be a fun and fast-paced event, combining team dynamics with individual speed. Teams will consist of men and women working together to complete the course, and the relay format is sure to provide excitement for both participants and spectators.
- Masters Race: The masters race is reserved for participants aged 50 and above, offering seasoned athletes the opportunity to compete in a prestigious event. The masters category is a celebration of endurance, fitness, and passion for the sport, showcasing that age is no barrier to competing at a high level.
Prize Pool and Distribution
The total prize pool for the 2024 Kericho Cross Country stands at Ksh. 1.19 million, distributed across the various race categories. Here’s a breakdown of the prize money for each event:
10km Race (Men & Women)
- 1st place: Ksh. 150,000
- 2nd place: Ksh. 100,000
- 3rd place: Ksh. 75,000
- 4th place: Ksh. 50,000
- 5th place: Ksh. 40,000
- 6th to 10th places: Ksh. 20,000 each
The 10km race offers the biggest rewards, with Ksh. 150,000 going to the first-place winners in both the men’s and women’s categories. The top ten finishers will all walk away with prize money, making this race highly competitive.
Mixed Relay
- 1st place: Ksh. 50,000
- 2nd place: Ksh. 30,000
- 3rd place: Ksh. 20,000
The mixed relay is also set to offer exciting competition, with the winning team taking home Ksh. 50,000. Second and third place will receive Ksh. 30,000 and Ksh. 20,000 respectively.
Masters Race
- 1st place: Ksh. 30,000
- 2nd place: Ksh. 20,000
- 3rd place: Ksh. 10,000
The masters category recognizes the efforts of veteran athletes, with the first-place finisher receiving Ksh. 30,000. The second and third places will be awarded Ksh. 20,000 and Ksh. 10,000 respectively.
The Importance of Kericho Cross Country in Kenyan Athletics
The Kericho Cross Country has become a key event in Kenya’s athletic calendar, providing a platform for both elite and upcoming athletes to compete at a high level. The competition draws participants from across Kenya, including athletes from the North and South Rift regions, known for producing some of the world’s best long-distance runners.
For many, the event serves as a springboard to bigger international competitions, offering visibility and experience. The 2023 edition was highly successful, with top performers walking away with Ksh. 1.35 million in prize money. This year, with Ksh. 1.19 million up for grabs, the stakes are equally high.
How to Prepare for the 2024 Kericho Cross Country
Athletes interested in participating should prepare for the event by focusing on endurance training, strength, and proper nutrition. With the varying terrain and distances, runners will need to be in peak physical condition to perform at their best. It’s also crucial to familiarize yourself with the event’s rules and the course layout ahead of race day.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kericho Cross Country promises to be another thrilling edition of this annual event, with hundreds of athletes competing for the top honors. Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, the competition offers a fantastic opportunity to witness some of Kenya’s finest athletic talent. With a total prize pool of Ksh. 1.19 million and multiple race categories, it’s set to be a memorable event. Make sure to register early and prepare for an exciting day of cross-country running on October 5, 2024, at the Kericho Teachers Training College.
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