Stars of the future to test their talent at 2025 Absa Kip Keino Classic
Promising Under-20 athletes to compete against elite runners in Core events
NAIROBI, Kenya, May 30- The 2025 Absa Kip Keino Classic on Saturday (May 31) will give future track and field stars a golden chance to experience what it takes to compete in a world class event.
Athletics Kenya (AK) has invited promising Under-20 athletes to compete alongside the elite professional athletes in core events of the sixth leg of this year’s World Athletics Continental Gold Tour.
The Tour forms the second tier of international one-day meetings after the Wanda Diamond League with Kip Keino Classic the only event in Africa with the gold label status.
Inclusion of the future talent is a strategic move aimed at fast-tracking their development and testing their readiness for the upcoming Africa U18 and U20 Championships trials.
For the chosen youngsters, performing well at Kip Keino Classic could set them on their way to Nigeria where the junior continental championships will take place in July.
“We are building a pipeline, not just hosting a competition,” says Joseph Ilovi, AK’s Youth Development Secretary.
Seasoned professionals
“These young athletes get to experience racing in a World Athletics Gold Label event, sharing the track with Olympians and seasoned professionals.
“That experience is invaluable as we prepare for the Africa U18/U20 Championships.”
The women’s 5,000m final has attracted some of the brightest young prospects from East Africa.
Sheila Jebet, Cynthia Chepkurui and Mercy Chepkemoi all of Kenya and Uganda’s Charity Cherop will measure their talent against international runners.
“The chance to compete here early in their careers boosts confidence and builds resilience,” Ilovi explained.
“When you’ve raced in front of a packed stadium, under the pressure of a major meet, you are mentally and physically better prepared for what lies ahead.”
The timing could not be more perfect.
The National Trials for the Africa U18/U20 Championships are expected between June 19–21, followed by a rigorous 15-day training camp before the team heads to Nigeria in mid-July.
-By Robert Kibet | Freelance Journalist
-Photos: Peter Njoroge
