Athletics Kenya (AK) Youth Development Chair Barnaba Korir has assured that the renovation of Nyayo National Stadium’s running surface is on course ahead of the Kip Keino Classic set for May 31.
The one-day meet, which marks the sixth stop in the World
Athletics Continental Tour Gold calendar, will see the return of some of the
sport’s biggest names to Nairobi.
Speaking to Radio Jambo, Korir, who also serves as the Kip
Keino Classic meet director, said preparations are progressing smoothly, with
efforts in place to ensure a world-class experience for athletes and fans
alike.
“The Kip Keino Classic is well on course. We’re preparing
diligently to ensure we deliver a successful sixth edition on May 31. Behind
the scenes, work is on track,” Korir said.
Korir had earlier confirmed that a brand-new tartan track
would be installed at Nyayo Stadium, with the materials having arrived in the
country last week.
He further revealed that several global stars, including
Olympic and World champions, have already confirmed their participation.
“We have received about 10 confirmations so far from elite
athletes, including Olympic and World champions in javelin and the hammer
throw, as well as top American sprinters,” said Korir.
Among the headline acts already locked in are Canadian
Olympic hammer throw champions Ethan Katzberg and Camryn Rogers.
The duo are also World champions from Budapest 2023.
Also expected in Nairobi is Grenada’s Olympic javelin bronze
medallist Anderson Peters. Flying the Kenyan flag high will be Africa’s fastest
man, Ferdinand Omanyala, who is set to light up the track in the 100m.
Initially slated for April, this year’s Kip Keino Classic was moved to May due
to a congested athletics calendar.
“We adjusted the date after analysing the global calendar.
Events like the Botswana Grand Prix presented the perfect window for us. The
other meets have set the tone, and we’re confident Nairobi will rise to the
occasion,” Korir explained.
The Continental Tour kicked off with the Maurie Plant Meet
in Melbourne (March 29), followed by the Botswana Golden Grand Prix (April 12).
Upcoming stops include the Golden Grand Prix in Japan (May
18), the Boris Hanzekovic Memorial in Croatia (May 22–24) and the Irena
Szewinska Memorial in Poland (May 30), before the circuit lands in Nairobi.
Korir emphasised the importance of early preparations to
avoid the logistical headaches experienced in Botswana. “We are keen to avoid
last-minute rushes like what happened in Botswana, where heavy rains delayed
the laying of the track."
Prior to the Golden Grand Prix in Gaborone, Botswana was hit
with intense rains which hindered the preparation for the meet with marking of
the tartan having to be done overnight.
"I spoke to the director of the meet over the phone and
he told me that they had to work all night to finish the marking of the
track," Korir said.
Korir believes a successful Kip Keino Classic will further
boost Kenya’s credentials as a host of major international events.
“If we deliver a flawless event, it could open doors for
Kenya to host bigger competitions, including the 2029 World Championships,
which we intend to bid for,” he added.
