Lobo Village comes alive as Ngetich, Ebenyo chase Sirikwa Classic titles
Reading Time: 3min | Sat. 14.02.26. | 09:00
The fifth edition will also showcase junior and developmental categories, including an 8km under-20 men’s race, a 6km under-20 women’s race, and a fast-paced 2km loop event designed for middle-distance specialists
World cross-country champion Agnes Jebet Ngetich and bronze medalist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo headline the 2026 Sirikwa Classic as they seek to defend their titles when the event returns to Lobo Village in Eldoret on Saturday, 14 February.
The World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold fixture comes just one month after the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee and coincides with Valentine’s Day, setting the stage for a celebration of athletics excellence on home soil.
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Kenyan fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to honour the stars who powered the nation to the top of the medal table in Florida.
Ngetich, who clinched world gold, is relishing the opportunity to race again before her home crowd.
“I’m very excited. This is home, and defending my title here in Eldoret is something I really want to do. The atmosphere is always special at Sirikwa,” she said. “I’ve stayed healthy, and training has been good. My coach and I have been working consistently, and I feel strong."
Her 10km race is shaping up to be a rematch of the Tallahassee showdown, with Uganda’s silver medalist Joy Cheptoyek expected on the start line. Kenya’s Maurine Chebor, eighth at the World Championships, and Mariam Lufti Njoki, a recent cross-country winner in Eldoret, will also pose strong challenges.
The field is further bolstered by Caren Chebet, part of Kenya’s team silver-medal squad, Catherine Reline, and Ugandan duo Loice Chekwemoi and Martha Chemutai, both of whom featured in Tallahassee.
Still basking in her global triumph, Ngetich says success has strengthened her sense of purpose rather than added pressure.
“Being a world champion is the result of years of dedication and commitment. It’s what I’ve been training for, and I’m proud to have achieved it,” she said.
“There’s responsibility that comes with it, but I see it as motivation. Running at home allows me to race physically in front of my community. Many people cannot travel abroad to watch these races, so bringing world-class competition here means a lot,” she continued.
Ebenyo eyes historic hat-trick
The men’s 10km contest promises equal intensity, headlined by two-time defending champion Ebenyo.
The world cross-country bronze medalist is aiming to become the first athlete to secure a Sirikwa Classic hat-trick.
“My race plan for Saturday is built on faith, courage, and a championship mentality. I am not just showing up to compete; I am showing up to contend, to fight and to finish strong,” he offered.
Among his chief rivals will be marathon star John Korir, champion of both the Boston and Chicago marathons. Cross-country often brings together specialists from varying disciplines, and Korir is eager to seize the moment before a home crowd.
“I am so excited to run the Sirikwa Classic with a home crowd cheering me. My race plan is to win in front of the fans who usually watch me on TV and give them the chance to watch me live,” Korir said.
Korir will return to the Boston Marathon in April to defend his title after the Eldoret race.
Also in the mix are Robert Kiprop, part of Kenya’s Tallahassee squad, Germany’s Hendrik Pfeiffer, and Kenyans George Manangoi, Emmanuel Kipsang, Brian Kipsang and Enos Chebet.
Beyond competition, Ebenyo views the race as an avenue to inspire the next generation.
“When I look into the crowd and see young athletes watching, I’m reminded that my race can plant faith in someone’s heart. That responsibility pushes me to give my best because representation matters,” he said.
Platform for future champions
The fifth edition of the Sirikwa Classic will also showcase junior and developmental categories, including an 8km under-20 men’s race, a 6km under-20 women’s race, and a fast-paced 2km loop event designed for middle-distance specialists.
Backed by a Ksh8 million title sponsorship from Absa Bank Kenya, the meet offers a prize purse that ranks among the most competitive on the circuit.
Senior race winners will earn $6,000 (Ksh780,000), with rewards extending to the top 15 finishers.
Junior athletes and 2km loop competitors will likewise benefit from substantial financial incentives aimed at nurturing emerging talent.