Olympic Champion Ethan Katzberg Leads Star -Studded Kip Keino Classic 2026
NAIROBI, Kenya, March 19, 2026—Nairobi is set to welcome the world’s elite athletes on April 24 as the 7th edition of Kip Keino Classic returns to its iconic home at Nyayo National Stadium. The meet, part of the prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour, continues to solidify its reputation as one of the world’s leading one-day athletics events.
Olympic and World Champion hammer thrower Ethan Katzberg from Canada has already confirmed his participation, leading an international lineup that includes top athletes from Europe, the United States, and beyond. “As a federation, we are ready to welcome Olympic and World Champions, including Ethan Katzberg, to Nairobi,” said Barnaba Korir, Meet Director. “This year’s event will be bigger, more competitive, and a true showcase of global talent meeting Kenya’s finest athletes.”
The Kip Keino Classic is strategically positioned on the global calendar, serving as a key stop for athletes preparing for the World Athletics Relays. This gives Nairobi a unique role as a hub where top global athletes converge before continental and world championships.
Empowering Kenyan Athletes and Expanding Disciplines
While the meet attracts world-class competitors, it also provides Kenyan athletes with a critical platform. “We are creating a stage for our athletes to earn World Ranking points, gain exposure, and prepare for upcoming championships like the World Relays,” Korir explained.
Kenya is expanding beyond its traditional dominance in middle- and long-distance races, placing greater focus on sprints and field events. With stars like Ferdinand Omanyala inspiring wider participation, the Kip Keino Classic is helping build a stronger, more versatile team for global competitions.
To ensure the event meets World Athletics standards, technical preparations are underway. “Next week, the TimeTronics team from Belgium will arrive in Nairobi Monday through Thursday to verify timing systems and equipment, while a dedicated surveyor team will certify the track to international specifications,” Korir said. “We are working closely with the Ministry of Sports and international partners to guarantee every detail is perfect.”
Showcasing Kenya and Driving Economic Impact
The Kip Keino Classic is more than just a race; it is a platform for national pride, economic growth, and global recognition. “The Kip Keino Classic is not just a race—it’s a celebration of Kenya on the world stage,” Korir said. Visiting athletes and officials will experience Kenya’s natural beauty, from Nairobi National Park to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, strengthening the country’s tourism profile.
Athletics also delivers significant economic benefits. Kenyan athletes win prize money worldwide, bringing foreign currency home, while the event attracts sponsors, media, and spectators. “Athletics is one of our strongest economic drivers,” Korir emphasized. “Every athlete, every event, every medal contributes directly to Kenya’s growth while creating opportunities for our youth.”
With global stars confirmed, Kenyan talent ready to shine, and technical preparations, including the Belgian TimeTronics team and surveyors for certification, underway, the Kip Keino Classic 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark event. As Korir concluded, “We are proud of what we have built and ready to deliver a world-class event that celebrates sport, national pride, and Kenya’s position on the global athletics stage.”
