World Cross Country champion Agnes Ng’etich and Kenyan long-distance star Daniel Ebenyo will headline the fifth edition of the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country Tour, scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Lobo Village in Eldoret.
The two athletes arrive in high spirits after strong performances at the World Cross Country Championships held in Tallahassee, Florida, earlier this month.
Daniel Ebenyo won a bronze medal in the men’s race after finishing in 28 minutes and 45 seconds, behind Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo and Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi. Agnes Ng’etich, on her part, made history by winning her first world title in 31 minutes and 28 seconds.
Their return to Eldoret has raised excitement among fans, athletes, and organisers who view the Sirikwa Classic as one of Africa’s most important cross-country events.
Ebenyo Targets Historic Hat-Trick
Speaking during the official launch of the race, Daniel Ebenyo confirmed his participation and said he is eager to compete once again on home soil.
“I am happy to announce that I will be competing in the 2026 edition of the Sirikwa Classic,” Ebenyo said.
The 30-year-old will be chasing a rare hat-trick, having won the previous two editions of the race. In 2024, he won in 29:16, and in 2025, he defended his title in 29:57.
Ebenyo said the competition has played a major role in his growth as an athlete.
“Winning the Sirikwa Classic prepared me for bigger races. It helped me perform well at the World Cross Country Championships,” he explained.
He added that he looks forward to racing against both local and international athletes in what he expects to be a tough contest.
Ng’etich Returns as Defending Champion
Agnes Ng’etich will also return to defend her title after winning last year’s women’s race in 32:42.
She beat Janeth Chepng’etich and Miriam Chebet in a strong field and has since grown into one of Kenya’s most promising distance runners.
Fresh from her world championship victory, Ng’etich is expected to attract strong competition as she seeks to continue her winning form.
Organisers believe her presence will inspire young athletes and increase the profile of the race globally.
Race Categories and Participation
The 2026 Sirikwa Classic will feature several race categories designed to promote athletics at all levels.
Kids’ races for ages 5–8, 9–12, and 13–15
Under-20 race
2km loop race
Elite 10km races for men and women
Race director Barnaba Korir confirmed that participation in the elite and Under-20 races will be by invitation only, while children will participate through registration.
Korir said this structure helps maintain high competition standards while also encouraging grassroots talent.
Prize Money Boosts Competition
Korir also revealed that the race will continue to offer some of the best prize money in Kenya.
Winners of the senior elite races will take home Ksh774,102 (about $6,000).
Under-20 winners will receive Ksh161,271 ($1,250).
Winners of the 2km loop race will earn Ksh258,034 ($2,000).
According to Korir, only the Great Chepsaita race offers higher prize money in Kenya.
He said the financial rewards motivate athletes and help support their careers.
Sirikwa Classic’s Growing Legacy
Over the years, the Sirikwa Classic has become a key platform for Kenyan and international runners to prepare for global competitions.
The race has helped identify and nurture talent while strengthening Eldoret’s reputation as the home of champions.
With Ng’etich and Ebenyo headlining the 2026 edition, organisers expect another thrilling competition that will attract global attention.
As the countdown begins, athletics fans are already looking forward to what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the Sirikwa Classic story.