Kip Keino star athletes soak in Safari experience

A number of international athletes from the just concluded Kip Keino Classic had a unique experience away from the running track, taking to the wild expanses of Nairobi National Park over the weekend.

The athletes, drawn from various countries, were treated to breathtaking views of Kenya's iconic wildlife at the Nairobi National Park in what is part of the Kenya Tourism Board's (KTB) broader initiative to leverage sporting events for destination promotion and establish Kenya as a premier sports tourism destination.

Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News

With the Kip Keino Classic being a premier athletics event that displayed the pinnacle of the country's sporting excellence, the familiarization trip by KTB sought to present a different facet of Kenya's allure, beyond its reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running.

"The Nairobi National Park's juxtaposition with the city's skyline and giraffes is unlike anything I have seen before," said Thomas Röhler, Olympic champion in the Javelin from Germany, who was participating in his second Kip Keino Classic.

He praised the local support and the rich history of Kenyan athletics, stating, "Being here feels special because Kenya is the home of champions. The human connection and the stunning environment have made a lasting impression.”

The focus area for Omanyala after Kip Keino setback

Simon Verherstraeten, a Belgian sprinter making his debut at the event, expressed his surprise at the difference between Kenyan sporting events and those in his home country:

"It's a big difference with Belgium meetings, which are a bit smaller and less enthusiastic, also less public. It is really nice to be here and to feel the warmth of the people and also the interest in athletics.”

Verherstraeten added that the safari experience offered a rare opportunity to see beyond the typical competition venues.

"Normally you only see the inside of a hotel if you do meetings and the track. Now, it is really nice that on the day we are traveling, we get to see a bit of the country.”

The excursion forms part of the continued strategy by KTB banking on high-profile sporting events that attract international athletes and media coverage to showcase Kenya's tourism potential to global audiences.

Research indicates that 48% of travellers have booked trips inspired by social media posts, a figure that can extend to athlete endorsements given their influence, where 80% of fans trust recommendations from their favourite athletes.

Federations asked to fully capitalize on sports tourism for growth

Norwegian athlete Amalie Luel highlighted the cultural aspects that make Kenya unique.

"Kenya and Nairobi are just so full of culture and you can tell that the people here are so proud of their country and they want to show off all the things that they have to offer, such as the beautiful wildlife."

She emphasized her intention to return for a longer stay and explore more tourism experiences beyond the safari.

The sixth edition of the Absa Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour took place on 31 May at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, Kenya.

Omanyala on what Kenya needs to host Diamond League meet

As a Gold level event in the World Athletics Continental Tour, it offered both prize money and world ranking points, continuing its tradition since its launch in 2020 as a premier athletics event on the continent.

“The reach of sporting events has become a very powerful marketing currency, and any destination looking to stay competitive must grasp the essence of that audience,” said KTB CEO June Chepkemei.

“We are delighted to have hosted these athletes during the Kip Keino Classic, which is in itself a celebration of Kenya’s athletic heritage and our unmatched natural diversity. By opening our national parks, city experiences and cultural gems to them, we amplify Kenya’s story in real-time.”