Parents urged to support children's sporting talents

 

Children display their bibs for Chepsaita Run

Parents have been strongly encouraged to support the sporting talents of their children, as the second edition of the Chepsaita Cross Country Run draws near. 

The event, which will take place this Saturday, promises to be an exciting and impactful occasion, with athletes from various categories coming together to showcase their skills.

AK Youth Development Director, Barnabas Korir, expressed his admiration for the overwhelming turnout of parents accompanying their children to collect their bibs at designated locations. 

"It’s truly heartening to see so many parents supporting their children in this journey. Their presence today is a clear indication of how much they value athletics and are invested in their children's dreams," Korir remarked while overseeing the bib issuance at Eldoret Sports Club.

He further emphasized that building the country's future champions requires a collective effort, urging both communities and families to come together to nurture young talent.

"Developing these athletes is not just the work of the federation or coaches alone—it’s a joint initiative. Parents, teachers, and local communities all have a role in shaping these young stars," Korir said.

As the event gathers momentum, the turnout has been impressive for both elite and open categories, signaling a strong future for athletics in the region. The excellent organization and support from various stakeholders, including parents, make it clear that the Chepsaita Cross Country Run is set for success.

Chepsaita Cross Country Set to Boost Local Sports and Tourism

Chepsaita Cross Country Set to Boost Local Sports and Tourism, Says Barnabas Korir

AK Youth Development Director, Barnabas Korir, has emphasized the importance of leveraging the stunning landscapes of Chepsaita to promote both local sports and tourism. As the venue for the upcoming World Athletics Gold Level event, the Chepsaita Cross Country promises to not only showcase world-class athleticism but also highlight the region’s natural beauty.

“We have a unique opportunity to tap into the breathtaking landscapes of Chepsaita to promote sports tourism,” Korir said today while inspecting the event's venue 

“The area’s undulating terrain and picturesque views make it an ideal location for hosting such an event, while also providing visitors with the chance to experience its cultural and natural wonders.”he added.

With the previous edition of the race hailed as a major success, expectations are running high for this year's competition. Both participants and spectators are set to flock to Chepsaita, eager to experience the thrilling atmosphere of the World Athletics Gold Level event.

The racecourse, which winds through the region's challenging and scenic terrain, offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Chepsaita’s undulating hills, lush greenery, and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors will also be able to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for both adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts.

Race Patron Hon. Farouk Kibet expressed his excitement for the upcoming event, stating, "Hapa Ndipo," which translates to "This is the place to be." He highlighted that the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance make Chepsaita a hidden gem that should be celebrated and shared with the world.

In preparation for the event, a thorough inspection of the venue was conducted today to ensure that everything is in place for a seamless and successful race. Organizers are optimistic that the Chepsaita Cross Country will not only enhance the profile of local sports but also establish the region as a top-tier destination for tourism and outdoor activities.

As the countdown to the event begins, all eyes will be on Chepsaita, with both athletes and tourists eager to experience its unique offerings. This event marks a significant milestone in the development of sports tourism in the region.

Farouk Kibet Highlights Importance of Physical Fitness Ahead of Chepsaita Cross Country Race

Patron of the Chepsaita Cross Country Race, Farouk Kibet, has underscored the importance of physical fitness in preparation for the race scheduled for this Saturday in Chepsaita.

Speaking today at the free medical camp held at Chepsaita, Farouk emphasized that the initiative serves not only as a health check-up but also as a valuable opportunity for participants to assess their physical readiness for the competition.

"This medical camp is an important step for athletes, particularly the elderly and children, as it provides an opportunity to gauge their fitness levels ahead of the race," Farouk stated.

He also expressed his satisfaction with the enthusiastic turnout of children at the camp and their eagerness to compete on Saturday. "The future of sports in our country depends on how we nurture young talent. I am pleased to see that the Chepsaita Cross Country features several categories for children, as this is key to developing tomorrow's champions," Farouk added.

Barnabas Korir, the AK Youth Development Director, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical role of fitness in athletic performance. "Physical fitness is essential to achieving peak performance in any race or sporting competition. Ensuring that athletes are in optimal health is key to their success in the upcoming event," Korir said.

Preparations for 5th Edition of Ngelel-Tarit Kids Race in Full Swing

 

The 5th edition of the Ngelel-Tarit Kids and Elderly Race is set to take place on December 12, 2024, at Kipsinende Primary School in Uasin Gishu County, with preparations already in full swing.

This exciting event provides a unique opportunity for young athletes to showcase their potential while also encouraging active participation from the elderly, fostering intergenerational engagement. The race serves as a platform for children to discover and nurture their athletic talents, contributing to their physical, mental, and emotional development.

Richard Metto, the Race Director, highlighted the event’s origin and its broader goals: "We initiated this race after recognizing that many children are often idle during the holidays, and this event offers them a productive way to stay active. It also provides a valuable opportunity for them to begin developing their athletic skills early on," Metto explained.

 In addition to free registration, participants will have the chance to win prizes and benefit from a medical camp.

The race is part of Athletics Kenya's (AK) ongoing commitment to supporting youth athletics and fostering talent development from an early age. As a key event on the Athletics Kenya calendar, it reflects the federation’s focus on creating opportunities for young athletes to excel.

Barnaba Korir, AK’s Youth Development Director, emphasized the significance of nurturing talent in children. "Kids Athletics is a vital breeding ground for future champions, and by investing in events like this, we ensure that children are equipped with the skills, discipline, and mindset necessary to succeed at higher levels of competition."

 Korir further noted that AK's support for youth training camps across the country is an essential step in maintaining Kenya’s legacy as a global leader in athletics.

Kids line-up for the Ngelel-Tarit Kids athletics last year

The Ngelel-Tarit Kids Race has three-time Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon, who serves as the event's ambassador. Kipyegon, who started her athletic journey in school, continues to inspire a new generation of athletes with her achievements, proving that early involvement in sports can lead to outstanding success on the world stage.

The race will feature multiple categories, catering to a wide range of age groups:

• 200m for 5-8 Years Boys/Girls
• 1km for 9-12 Years Boys/Girls
• 1km for 40-50 Years Women
• 1km for 45-55 Years Men
• 500m for 51 Years & Above Women
• 500m for 56 Years & Above Men
• 2km for 13-15 Years Boys/Girls
• 4km for 16-19 Years Girls
• 6km for 16-19 Years Boys

Early participation in sports fosters discipline, teamwork, and a sense of personal achievement, which are invaluable life skills. In the context of athletics, it also helps children build resilience, improve their fitness, and develop a passion for sports.

 

Athletics Kenya/World Athletics 2024/25 Season Calendar of Events

 

The Athletics Kenya and World Athletics calendar for the 2024/25 season promises to be packed with a diverse range of events catering to top-tier track and field competitions across the globe. For Athletics Kenya, the national calendar will feature several key events, including the Kenyan National Athletics Championships, which acts as a qualifying event for global competitions such as the World Athletics Championships and the Olympic Games.

Check the calendar below:

Unlocking Young Talent: Essential Coaching Resources from World Athletics

Coaching plays a crucial role in helping children discover and develop their true talents.

 Whether you're an experienced coach or a new teacher, the right guidance can make all the difference in nurturing young athletes. To support coaches at every level, World Athletics offers a range of free and flexible resources, designed to help you build a strong foundation for kids' athletic development.

 With these tools, coaches can effectively nurture talent and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Click HERE to check the coaching resources from World Athletics.

Chepsaita Cross Country Race Announces Education Scholarships for Students Ahead of Second Edition

Hon. Farouk Kibet , Patron Chepsaita Cross Country.

Over 1,000 students from various schools will benefit from education scholarships as part of the upcoming Chepsaita Cross Country race, set for its second edition on December 7, 2024.

Hon. Farouk Kibet, Patron of the Chepsaita Cross Country race, has announced. 

During a media briefing held at Chepsaita to discuss the race preparations, Hon. Kibet revealed that over 1,000 students from various schools will benefit from the scholarships. "I am pleased to announce that more than 1,000 students from 10 different schools will each receive a Ksh. 10,000 scholarship, directly paid to their schools. This Ksh. 10 million initiative aims to empower students and help them achieve their dreams through education," said Hon. Kibet.

The Chepsaita Cross Country race, recognized as a talent breeding ground, has attracted numerous young athletes who will compete in different categories.

Barnaba Korir, the Youth Development Director of Athletics Kenya and CEO of the race, expressed his excitement about the race’s continued growth. "I am proud to acknowledge the increasing significance of the Chepsaita Cross Country, which has firmly established itself as a breeding ground for talent, blending athletics and education seamlessly," Korir said.

Korir also emphasized the event's alignment with Athletics Kenya's mission to nurture and develop talent. "By creating an environment where young athletes can excel both academically and athletically, we are providing them with the tools to pursue successful careers in sports while ensuring their academic growth. This holistic approach is essential for shaping well-rounded individuals," he added.

The Chepsaita Cross Country race is a World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold event and has attracted athletes from more than 15 countries, including Bahrain, Brunei, Burundi, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, South Africa, Sudan, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda, and the USA.

With the theme "Run for Education," the race underscores the vital role of integrating education and sports to foster the development of future generations.

Parents in Nandi Launch Athletics Camp to Nurture Young Talent

Kids training camp in Nandi County.

 Parents in Nandi County have taken the initiative to develop an athletics camp at ACK Cheirot Primary as part of their effort to foster and nurture young athletic talent.

 

The camp, which currently hosts more than 50 athletes, reflects the strong determination of local parents, who contribute maize, beans, and sorghum to support a feeding program for the camp’s participants.

 

Concerned about the future of athletics in their community, these parents have decided to take matters into their own hands, ensuring that their children have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in athletics.

 

AK Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir in session with the kids

Despite their commitment, the young athletes face numerous challenges that threaten to derail their potential. However, the efforts of the parents to create a supportive environment show their belief in the importance of athletics in shaping their children's future.

 

Athletics Kenya Youth and Development Director, Barnaba Korir, who visited the camp, commended the parents' resilience and vision. "This camp not only demonstrates the parents' dedication to sports but also serves as an example for other institutions to follow in nurturing athletic talent. We will make every effort to ensure that such centers continue to thrive," Korir said.

 

“Athletics Kenya remains committed to talent development, as demonstrated by our support for various talent training camps across the country. These initiatives have been instrumental in Kenya's remarkable performance in youth athletics on the global stage, nurturing young talents from an early age. “Korir said.

 

Warming-up after the training.

He added that “I was inspired by the enthusiasm, determination, and aspirations of the young athletes as they expressed their ambitions and dreams for the future. Their energy and passion are a clear indication of the bright future of athletics in Kenya.”

Korir reiterated that AK will explore ways to provide support to the camp and similar initiatives, aligning with our federation's focus on mentoring young talent and ensuring a continuous pipeline of future champions.

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