The stage is set for the highly anticipated fourth edition of the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country, a World Athletics Gold Label event, which will take place on February 22 at Lobo Village in Eldoret.

With final preparations nearing completion, the race has attracted a star-studded lin eup of elite local and international athletes, including long distance powerhouses Uganda, Ethiopia and Tanzania, all eager to battle for glory on the challenging course.

Speaking to journalists yeterday during the official launch in Eldoret, Race CEO Barnabas Korir announced an increase in prize money and confirmed participation from international athletes.

“As a Gold Label race in Africa, we want to reward athletes well. In the senior category, we will award positions one to 15 for both men and women, while in the Under-20 category, we will reward positions one to 20,” said Korir.

He added that prize money will be paid in dollars, with the winners in both the senior men’s and women’s races set to receive $6,000 (approximately Sh775,920).

Head of Technical Ibrahim Hussein affirmed that preparations are 90 percent complete with just a week left until race day.

“We have made some course modifications, removing certain obstacles and replacing them with more athlete-friendly alternatives. We will also have a dedicated VIP area, a finish area, a podium, and a media centre. Entertainment will be available along the course, and we have added showers and shallow water sections to help athletes cool down, given the hot weather,” explained Hussein.

He noted that adjustments were made in response to feedback from previous editions, removing a steeplechase obstacle and a water jump while introducing new elements to make the race more exciting.

The 2km course will feature a meandering loop with tents positioned along the track, allowing spectators to cheer from both sides. Hussein added that two artificial hills, uphill and downhill sections, and muddy puddles will be among the course’s defining characteristics.

The event launch was attended by Athletics Kenya (AK) president Jackson Tuwei, NOCK president Paul Tergat, IOC Refugee Program Manager Gonzalo Barrio, World Athletics Senior Program Manager Alice Annibal, double Olympic medallist Beatrice Chebet and 10K world record holder Agnes Jebet Ngetich.