Youngsters Kirui, Maiyo looking to suit up for Kenya in Cali

In a competition Agnes Tirop Memorial World Cross Country Tour event held in Eldoret on 12 February, younsters Ismael Kirui and Vincent Maiyo engaged in epic battle to pick gold and silver in the boys' under- 18 6km race. 

Kirui, came in first in 18:15 with Maiyo finishing a second later for silver ahead of Charles Rotich who completed the podium places in 18:21. 

A Torongo-based athlete, the first place finish for Kirui was consolation for his troubles in the National Cross Country Championships held on 22 January as he was tripped and fell two laps into the race and could not continue. 

"It was such a disappointment not to finish the race in the national championship and I had to do better at the World Athletics event. I went back to training with the sole purpose of coming for a win and I am happy this came to pass in a very competitive field. 

I also competed in the annual Discovery Cross Country on 31 January and won the 8km race which gave me morale to go for gold on 12 February at the Agnes Tirop Memorial event," offered Kirui. 

The form one student at Sinonin secondary school in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County, says his target is to represent the country in the World Under-20 Athletics Championships in Cali, Colombia. 

"I competed in the 2021 national Under-20 trials and finished fourth in 3000m. This time round, I know competition will be stiff, but I am training well with a ticket to the championship in mind. The Cross country events are part of my build up for track action," he added. 

On his part 18-year old Maiyo, just looking to double at the Under-20 event, giving the 3000m and 5000m distances a shot for his debut in the Kenyan colours. 

"This will be my first time to try out fir a slot in Team Kenya for any event and I am confident with the training I am undergoing I will have a good chance at making the team," the form four student said.