By KPC Sports Reporter
Kenya’s rising global profile in grassroots athletics has inspired organizers of the 5th edition of the Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour to expand the Kids Athletics programme.
Now, more than 3,500 children are set to participate on February 14, 2026, at Lobo Village in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
The ambitious goal follows Kenya’s victory in the World Athletics Kids’ Athletics Day Member Federation Challenge, where the country was named the world’s best-performing federation for successfully mobilising children in athletics activities.
Competition Director Kennedy Tanui said the expanded focus on children reflects a long-term vision of nurturing future champions from the grassroots.
“Kids are the future champions of this country and they must be nurtured early,” Tanui explained.
“Last year, we had about 3,000 children competing in various categories. This year, we want to increase that number to 3,500 to enhance talent growth and make the race even more attractive as we develop tomorrow’s stars.”
Tanui added that Kenya’s international recognition through the Kids Athletics Day Relay underscores the importance of exposing young athletes to structured competition from an early age.
“With Kenya being recognised globally, it is important for our local kids to gain exposure and compete at a level that prepares them for the world stage,” he said.
To achieve the increased participation, organizers plan to partner closely with schools in and around Uasin Gishu County, which Tanui described as a rich reservoir of talent.
“We have many schools with talented children. Our target is to ensure we bring as many kids to the race as possible,” he noted.
The Kids Athletics programme at the Sirikwa Classic will feature competitions in three age categories—5–8 years, 9–12 years, and 13–15 years—for both boys and girls.
The Sirikwa Classic, a World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold Label event, continues to grow in stature by combining elite international competition with a strong emphasis on grassroots development.
Athletics Kenya President Jack Tuwei welcomed the global recognition, saying:
“We’re delighted to be named the winner of the Kids’ Athletics Day Member Federation Challenge. With the support of our nationally trained Kids’ Athletics instructors, Athletics Kenya mobilised thousands of children through schools and community partnerships, offering opportunities to engage in structured athletics, promoting physical development, teamwork and a spirit of fun.”
“The Kids’ Athletics programme in Kenya has become a cornerstone of our grassroots development strategy, playing a vital role in talent identification and instilling a lifelong appreciation for sport and healthy living.”