Athletics Kenya president Jackson Tuwei sends warning to Cross-Country squad
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 25.12.25. | 10:06
The team will spend the festive season in camp rather than with their families, a sacrifice Tuwei says underlines their hunger and commitment to the cause
Athletics Kenya president Jackson Tuwei has fired a warning to Kenya’s squad heading to the World Cross Country Championships on Saturday, 10 January, in Tallahassee, Florida, noting that they will have a target on their backs as defending champions.
Tuwei spoke during the federation’s visit to Team Kenya camp at St Mark’s Teachers College, Kigari, where the athletes have been sharpening their blades ahead of the global showpiece.
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The team will spend the festive season in camp rather than with their families, a sacrifice Tuwei says underlines their hunger and commitment to the cause.
“Thank you for deciding to remain in camp even during this Christmas period. We thought you would want to go home to be with your families during Christmas and New Year,” Tuwei told the athletes.
“However, you have dedicated yourselves to training, and that shows you are serious about this championship."
Tuwei, who also serves as World Athletics vice president, reminded the athletes that Kenya will be competing with a target on its back as defending overall champions.
“This is a young team, and I am confident you will give your very best in Florida,” he said. “We wish you all the best of luck as you go out there to represent Kenya.”
At the previous edition of the championships in Belgrade, Serbia, Kenya topped the medal table after hauling in an impressive 11 medals (six gold, two silver and three bronze).
Ethiopia finished second with 10 medals, while Uganda placed third with five.
AK chair of youth development Barnaba Korir echoed Tuwei’s sentiments, noting that Kenya heads into the Florida championships carrying the weight of champions.
“Kenya will be going out to defend the title we won in Belgrade last year. I am confident this young group of athletes will deliver good results,” said Korir.
In Belgrade, Kenya struck gold in the women’s senior 10km through Beatrice Chebet, the men’s U20 race via Samuel Kibathi, and the mixed relay.
Looking ahead to Tallahassee, Korir is bullish that Kenya can mount a serious challenge across all categories.
The athletes will be in Nairobi on Sunday, 28 December, with departure set for Monday, 5 and Tuesday, 6 January.
