Norwegian Hurdler Line Kloster Eager to Feel the Kenyan Energy at Kip Keino Classic
NAIROBI, Kenya, May 29- Norwegian women's 400m hurdler, Line Kloster is set to make her debut at the annual Absa Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour Gold meeting at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi on Saturday (May 31) and she can hardly wait.
Though it's her first time in Kenya, Kloster is already thrilled by what lies ahead, especially after hearing about the explosive atmosphere created by local athletics fans.
"What I've seen of Africa so far is so beautiful and welcoming," Kloster said warmly.
"Everyone here has been incredibly helpful. I feel at home."
With over a decade on the international circuit, Kloster is no stranger to performing at the big stage.
She is a two-time Olympian, competing at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Summer Games besides representing Norway at the Budapest 2023 World Championships in Hungary.
Kloster currently holds the Norwegian national record in the women's 400m hurdles with a personal best of 53.91 seconds.
Despite her rich experience, she still finds joy in discovering new cultures.
"At the Oslo Diamond League, there's this section where there are always Kenyans cheering with so much energy dancing, drumming, singing. It feels like a party every time I pass by that part of the stadium.
"We don't really have a name for it, but it feels like a ‘Kenyan Curve' because of the vibe. So when you told me that's just a taste of what it's like back in Kenya, I got so excited," she told this writer in an interview in Nairobi.
She added: "Knowing what to expect makes me look forward to it even more. I can't wait to run in front of a crowd like that."
For Kloster, the Kip Keino Classic promises to be more than just another race.
It's a cultural moment, an emotional exchange, and memories that will live beyond the finish line.
-By Benson Kireru | Kenya Sports
