Source of Champions: Nandi Rebuilds Running Glory Through Kids Program

 Kids athletes stretch during a training session at Kipng’eru Junior School in Kapsisiywo, Nandi County, as part of a kids athletics holiday camp.

Kipng’eru initiative targets early talent identification and smooth transition to junior camps in Nandi County

A kids athletics program at Kipng'eru Junior School in Kapsisiywo, Nandi County, is nurturing young runers and preparing them for transition into structured junior camps.

Building Talent from the Ground Up

Children under the age of 15 have reported to a holiday training camp at Kipng’eru, where structured sessions focus on developing basic running skills, discipline, and endurance. The program is designed as a feeder system, introducing young athletes to organized training before they progress to more competitive environments.

The camp is coordinated by Daniel Bor, head coach of Kapsisiywo Junior Camp, who oversees training alongside teachers to ensure a balance between education and athletics.

"Our goal is to teach young athletes more than just running," Bor said. "We build discipline, teamwork, and a mindset for success. These children are the future champions of Nandi and Kenya."

The initiative comes at a time when stakeholders have raised concerns over a decline in talent production in a region historically known for producing world-class runners. By targeting children at an early age, the program aims to rebuild the county’s athletics pipeline from the grassroots.

Athletes who show promise at Kipng’eru are expected to transition to Kapsisiywo Junior Camp at around 16 years, where they will undergo more advanced and competitive training.

Mentorship and Support Drive Program

The camp recently received support from Cyprian Kotut, who donated food supplies to the young athletes as he prepares to compete in the April 20 Boston Marathon.

Kotut, younger brother to former marathon star Martin Lel, said giving back to the community was important in sustaining the region’s athletics legacy.

"I know how it feels to start from humble beginnings," Kotut said. "Supporting these kids is my way of giving back and keeping the legacy of Nandi running alive."

His gesture has provided both material and moral support to the young athletes, many of whom come from modest backgrounds.

"These young athletes remind me of my own journey," he added. "It’s inspiring to see them train with such passion and determination."

The program is part of a broader effort by Athletics Kenya to promote junior holiday camps and strengthen the Kids Athletics Program across the country. The initiative focuses on early talent identification, structured training, and creating clear pathways for progression into elite competition.

Local coaches say the impact is already visible, with young athletes showing improvement in technique, confidence, and endurance. The structured pathway between Kipng’eru and Kapsisiywo is expected to ensure that no promising talent is lost.

As the program grows, stakeholders believe it could play a key role in restoring Nandi County’s reputation as a leading source of Kenya’s distance running champions.

Kericho Sisters Shine Amid Rain at Junior Athletics Meet

Joy Chepchumba soars over the water jump with poise and determination during the 2000m junior secondary steeplechase at the Kericho County athletics meet, clocking 6:28 to finish second.

Under a cloudy sky heavy with rain, the Kericho County junior athletics track glistened as 15-year-old Joy Chepchumba and her younger sister Lindah Chebet, 11, took center stage. Lindah had earlier crossed the finish line in the primary school 1500m with a winning time of 4:36.17, while Joy finished second in the 2000m steeplechase for junior secondary school in 6:28. Despite the wet conditions, their performances highlighted a new wave of female talent emerging from the county.

Rising Talent in Kericho County

The two sisters, Chepchumba and Chebet train under Coach Mathew Kemei with Chepseon Athletics, at Chepsir, a training ground that borders the vast Mau Forest. Their dedication, early morning training routines, and strong sibling support have shaped their rapid rise in junior athletics.

Kericho County’s talent pool extends beyond the sisters. Steeplechase specialists like Mercy Chepng’eno and Abigael Kosgei, both junior athletes, train under Coach Peter Kipng’eno at Chagaik Secondary School, located within one of the county’s sprawling tea estates. Together, these athletes show that Kericho is steadily producing world-class female runners ready to compete nationally and internationally.

Discipline and Family Support: The Backbone of Success

For the Chepchumba sisters, athletics is a lifestyle. Days begin before dawn with disciplined training sessions carefully balanced with schoolwork and family responsibilities. “We motivate each other every day,” said Joy. Lindah added, “Winning today inspires me to work even harder.”

Coaches and spectators at the meet praised their commitment and natural talent. “Kericho has incredible potential,” Coach Kemei said. “These girls are disciplined, fast, and focused. With the right guidance, they can compete at the highest levels.”

A Glimpse Into the Future

The sisters’ performances are more than personal victories; they are transforming their families and inspiring their community, particularly young girls who now see athletics as a path to opportunity. Both Joy and Lindah are expected to feature prominently in upcoming national junior championships, joining peers like Chepng’eno and Kosgei in representing Kericho’s rising female talent.

In Kericho County, mornings on the track are more than a test of speed—they are proving grounds for talent, resilience, and dreams. Every stride the Chepchumba sisters take brings them closer to becoming the next stars of Kenyan athletics, one race at a time.

Kids Lead the Way as Athletics Kenya Reconnects Sport with Communities

Athletics Kenya’s Kids’ Athletics initiative is helping to rekindle the country’s deep-rooted running culture by introducing children to the sport at the community level. Speaking during a lively community run held on February 21 at Lemolok Primary School, Athletics Kenya Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir said the program aims to inspire young athletes while bringing families and communities back into the heart of the sport.

The event attracted hundreds of enthusiastic children who lined up eagerly for their races, turning the school grounds into a vibrant celebration of youth athletics.

A Festival of Running for All Generations

Parents, teachers, and even elderly community members joined the activities, with some taking part in the races themselves. Their participation added color and excitement to the competition, transforming the event into a true community celebration.

Families cheered loudly as young runners dashed across the field, while teachers encouraged their students from the sidelines.

A range of material awards was also presented to participants, recognizing effort and encouraging friendly competition among the young athletes.

Nurturing Talent Through Kids’ Athletics

Korir said initiatives such as the community run are part of a broader strategy to ensure children discover athletics early and develop an interest in sport.

“Our goal is to make athletics fun and accessible to children,” he said. “When young kids begin running and enjoying the sport at this age, they grow up understanding athletics and the opportunities it can bring.”

Through the Kids’ Athletics initiative, children are introduced to basic athletic skills such as running, jumping, and coordination while discovering the events that suit them best.

Korir also highlighted the role of Athletics Kenya’s junior training camps, which have nurtured many of the country’s current global stars. These camps provide structured development programs that help promising athletes transition from grassroots participation to national and international competition.

“Many of the athletes who are now representing Kenya on the global stage first passed through these junior programs,” Korir explained.

Reconnecting Athletics with Its Roots

The event was hosted by Jackson Tuwei, President of Athletics Kenya and Vice President of World Athletics, who emphasized the importance of reconnecting athletics with its community roots.

Tuwei said Kenya’s legendary success in distance running began at the grassroots level, where young athletes first discovered their talent in village competitions.

“Historically, athletics in this country started in the community,” he said. “When children run and the whole village comes together to support them, it creates excitement and inspiration. That is how future champions are born.”

For Athletics Kenya, initiatives like the community run are not only about competition but about building a strong future for the sport.

For the hundreds of children who took part at Lemolok Primary School, the races offered excitement, discovery, and the first steps into the world of athletics. And for some, it could mark the beginning of a journey that leads far beyond their village tracks—to the global stage where Kenya’s next generation of champions will emerge.

AK boss Tuwei lauds community races as launch pad for future champions

An impressive number of children turned up today for the Kesses Community Cross Country, a clear demonstration that the passion for athletics is alive and thriving at the grassroots level. 

The enthusiasm, discipline and determination displayed by these young athletes strongly affirm that the future of our sport is bright.

Young runners from across the region competed with confidence and endurance, pushing their limits while enjoying the spirit of competition. The presence of parents, coaches and local leaders who came out in large numbers to support them further underscored the power of community in nurturing talent.

Commending the turnout, AK President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jack Tuwei noted, “When we see such numbers of children participating at the community level, we are assured that the pipeline of Kenyan athletics remains strong. Our focus is to identify talent early and give it proper structure and mentorship.”

AK Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir echoed the same sentiments, stating, “Community races are the foundation of our success. These young athletes are not just competing , they are learning discipline, resilience and teamwork. This is where champions are born.”

"Community races such as the Kesses Cross Country are a true breeding ground for talent development. They provide a vital platform where raw potential is discovered, nurtured and guided toward excellence."Korir added.

Kenya’s Young Running Talent Shines at Fifth Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country

By Robert Kibet for Kids Athletics

Valentine’s Day at the iconic The Lobo Village was more than a celebration of love; it was a showcase of Kenya’s next generation of distance runners. From toddlers taking their first competitive steps to teenagers mastering tactical racing, the fifth Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country proved the country’s youth running pipeline is thriving.

Tiloa Training Camp Girls Lead 13–15 Podium Sweep

In the 13–15 years girls’ category, Tiloa Training Camp in Kuresoi North, South Rift, dominated with a clean podium sweep. Dorcas Chepngetich captured gold in 6:56.9, Sheila Chepkoech followed in 6:57.2 for silver, and Gloria Chebagogo took bronze in 7:09.5. For Gloria, this medal adds to a remarkable junior career: bronze at the 2024 Great Chepsaita Cross Country, gold at the 2025 Chepsaita Cross Country, and now a podium finish at Sirikwa Classic.

"I want to become the next Faith Kipyegon. Watching her run inspires me, and I hope to follow her footsteps to represent Kenya at the highest level," Gloria said after the race.

In the boys’ 13–15 category, Ezron Murgok surged ahead to win in 6:21.6, followed by Abraham Kipkoros (6:25.8) and Caleb Kiptoo (6:27.4). Fourth and fifth went to Asbel Kipkemboi (6:35.8) and Dennis Kirui, highlighting the depth of Kenya’s young male distance runners.

Barnaba Korir, Athletics Kenya’s Youth Development Programme manager, praised the level of competition: “At this age, it’s not just about winning. Our Junior Holiday Camps, hosted in over 50 public institutions, provide structured coaching, mentoring, and safeguarding. Competitions like Sirikwa prepare young athletes for under-20 events and eventually senior international competitions.”

9–12 Years: Rising Stars Take the Hills

The 9–12 years category offered thrilling racing across both genders. In the boys’ race, Elkanah Kiprotich (6:49.1) claimed gold, narrowly beating Evans Kipkorir (6:53.4) and Abraham Kipchirchir (6:54.1). Close behind, Collins Kiprop (6:56.8) and Titus Kiprotich (7:00.6) completed the top five.

The girls’ 9–12 category also showcased emerging talent. Shirleen Chepkemoi led the field in 7:16.8, followed by Mercy Chepkorir (7:17.3) and Faith Chepkoech (7:32.5). These results signal a growing pool of competitive young athletes ready to progress into the 13–15 and under-20 categories.

Korir emphasized the value of early exposure: “Introducing children to structured races at this age builds discipline, focus, and a love for running. These competitions, combined with our youth camps, lay the foundation for future national and international champions.”

5–8 Years: First Steps to Greatness

Even the youngest runners showed remarkable enthusiasm and potential. In the 5–8 years boys’ race, Elvis Kipkorir (2:38.2) led the field, followed by Victor Kipngetich (2:43.4) and Collins Kipkoech (2:44.2). For the girls, Abigael Chepkemoi (2:43.1) topped the race, with Faith Chepkoech (2:50.3) and Caren Chepkoech (2:52.2) completing the podium.

“These events give young children their first taste of competitive racing,” Korir said. “It’s about fun, learning, and building confidence, but also identifying talent early so that we can support them as they grow into elite athletes.”

Building Kenya’s Next Generation of Champions

The fifth edition of the Sirikwa Classic drew more than 3,500 children, highlighting the explosive growth of youth running in Kenya. From Tiloa Training Camp’s clean sweep to the tightly contested boys’ races, the event demonstrated that Kenya’s athletics future is in safe hands.

Korir also reflected on regional competition: “Uganda and Ethiopia are heavily investing in early talent development through schools and government programmes. Healthy rivalry drives us to continually improve our youth programmes.”

With structured coaching, mentoring, and regular competition, Kenya’s youngest athletes are gaining the experience and confidence to transition smoothly from the playground to national and international racing circuits. For athletes like Gloria Chebagogo, Elkanah Kiprotich, and Abigael Chepkemoi, the Sirikwa Classic is more than a race; it is the first step on a journey toward the world stage.

From toddlers taking their first competitive strides to teenagers mastering tactical racing, the rolling hills of Lobo Village showcased that Kenya’s legacy of distance running will continue for generations to come.

Where Champions Begin: Kids Thrill at 35th Nike Kenya Discovery Cross Country

 Young talents stole the spotlight at the 35th edition of the Nike Kenya Discovery Cross Country Championships, as children turned out in large numbers to compete, learn, and dream big on the cross-country course.

Kids competed across different age categories, with boys and girls aged 11–13 years battling it out in the 2km race, while the 8–10-year-olds took on the 1km distance. The youngest participants, aged 5–7 years, thrilled spectators as they raced over 500 metres, drawing loud cheers and applause from parents, teachers, and fans lining the course.

From the starting gun to the finish line, the young runners displayed immense enthusiasm, courage and optimism, many running with fearless determination well beyond their years. Their joy, excitement, and competitive spirit underlined the growing interest in athletics at grassroots level.

Parents turned up in large numbers, escorting and encouraging their children, while schools also fielded teams, reinforcing the importance of structured participation and early exposure to competitive sport. The event provided a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere, blending competition with fun and inspiration.

Athletics Kenya Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir hailed the impressive turnout and impact of the kids’ races, saying:

“Kids’ participation at the 35th Nike Kenya Discovery Cross Country Championships was remarkable, firmly reinforcing the event’s role as a vital platform for early talent identification and development.”

The strong presence of young athletes once again highlighted the championships’ importance in nurturing future stars, planting the seeds of discipline, confidence, and love for athletics at an early age a key pillar in sustaining Kenya’s long-standing dominance in distance running.

Young Runners Take the Spotlight as Discovery Cross Country Nurtures Future Stars

 

As the 35th edition of the Nike Discovery Kenya Cross Country returns to Eldoret Sports Club on January 25, 2026, special focus will once again be placed on the youngest athletes who represent the future of Kenyan athletics.

The event continues to stand out for its strong grassroots foundation, offering competitive opportunities for children as young as five years old. In this year’s programme, boys and girls aged 5–7 will race over 500 metres, those aged 8–10 will compete in the 1km event, while the 11–13 age group will take on a 2km course. These junior races form the backbone of the Discovery Cross Country, providing early exposure to structured competition.

Athletics Kenya Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir has consistently emphasized the importance of identifying talent at an early age, noting that Kenya’s success on the global stage begins with deliberate investment in children.

“Talent development must start early if we want to sustain our dominance in athletics,” Korir said. “Events like the Discovery Cross Country give young athletes a chance to discover their abilities, gain confidence and develop a love for the sport from a tender age.”

Korir also encouraged parents and guardians to play an active role in supporting young runners, saying family backing is critical in helping children balance sports, education and personal growth.

“Parents are key stakeholders in talent development. When they support their children, encourage discipline and value education alongside sport, we create well-rounded athletes who can succeed in the long term,” he added.

Kenya’s athletics system continues to rely on such grassroots competitions to ensure a steady pipeline of talent. "By integrating youth races into major events and aligning them with Athletics Kenya’s development structures, the country is deliberately safeguarding the future of its athletics success."Korir added.

Young Stars Set to Shine at Sirikwa Classic Kids Races

The Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour is emerging as a key platform for early talent identification, with children from the age of five set to compete in specially designed race categories.

Speaking ahead of the 5th edition of the Sirikwa Classic in Eldoret, AK Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir expressed excitement over the growing interest among young athletes, noting that the competition offers children as young as five years an opportunity to showcase their skills in a structured and competitive environment.

Korir encouraged parents, teachers, and coaches to register children in large numbers, highlighting the event as an ideal avenue for early talent identification and development.

“The Sirikwa Classic is not just about elite competition. It is also about giving young children a chance to experience organized racing, discover their potential, and begin their athletics journey the right way,” Korir said.

With age-appropriate race categories designed to accommodate participants from five years and above, the event is expected to attract hundreds of young runners eager to test themselves on a global stage. Korir noted that such exposure plays a crucial role in identifying promising athletes early and guiding them through proper development pathways.

He added that providing children with the right platforms at an early age helps instill discipline, confidence, and a love for the sport, while also safeguarding fair competition through adherence to age categories.

As anticipation builds ahead of the Sirikwa Classic, the children’s races are expected to be a major highlight, offering a glimpse into the future of Kenyan athletics and reinforcing the event’s role as a cornerstone in grassroots talent development.