Kenyan leaders have hailed the country’s athletic heritage and underscored the need to nurture young talent.
Speaking during the 2025 Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run held at Chepsaita Secondary School Grounds in Turbo Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said Kenya remains one of the world’s greatest athletics powerhouses, which he credited to the determination and resilience of her athletes.
“Because of our athletes, there is no nation whose anthem is played across international capitals more than Kenya’s. Every time I see our boys and girls conquering the world, I feel proud to be Kenyan,” he said.
He recognized legendary athletes and rising stars, noting that nurturing young talent is key to sustaining Kenya’s future success.
Wetang’ula pledged continued support for the event and urged all leaders to help provide opportunities for upcoming athletes.
He also encouraged national unity, pride in country and support for the government as it works toward transforming Kenya’s socio-economic future.
Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei echoed the Speaker’s sentiments, noting that succession planning in athletics is becoming more visible across the country.
“We must create spaces where, as some athletes retire, others emerge. We need to expand and protect our talent base to maintain our global dominance,” Koskei said.
He thanked participants and affirmed the government’s continued collaboration with local communities to strengthen the annual race, expressing optimism that future editions will draw even larger numbers.
Event Patron, Farouk Kibet, said the 2025 edition intentionally left out the Masters category to give young athletes more room to shine.
“This year was about showcasing youth talent. Next year will be bigger and better, with new additions to motivate more athletes to join,” Farouk explained.
He announced that winners in the Under-20 category will travel to Florida to witness the World Cross Country Championships, an opportunity aimed at inspiring their growth.
He added that prize money awarded today would significantly help improve the lives and careers of the beneficiaries.
Principal Secretary for Basic Education Prof. Julius Bitok commended the organisers and described the event as a powerful intersection of sport and education.
“This championship is special because it speaks to something I deeply care about -running for education,” he said adding: “Education remains the key to the future, and every child must be encouraged to study hard.”
Prof. Bitok added the event aligns with the President’s efforts to strengthen the education sector and provide more opportunities for learners across the country.
The annual Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run continues to grow as a premier grassroots athletics event, spotlighting emerging talent while uniting leaders, communities and athletes in promoting sports and education.
by Fredrick Maritim and Ekuwam Sylvester
