Visiting Absa Kip Keino Classic stars enjoy Magical Kenya experience with park Safari
NAIROBI, Kenya, June 1- Visiting international stars had a chance to unwind and enjoy the famed Kenyan safari experience on Sunday (June 1)—a day after they competed at the sixth Absa Kip Keino Classic.
The track and field luminaries traded their spikes for wild gear as they experienced the wonder of the Nairobi National Park—the only wildlife reserve located in the centre of a city in the world.
The trip was organised by Magical Kenya- the arm of the Kenya Tourism Board charged with marketing the country as a tourist destination of choice.
Needless to say, the drive left the visiting athletes awestruck. Here is how some reacted.
Amalie Iuel- Women’s 400m Hurdles-NOR
It was amazing. It was really, really fun. We got to see a lot of animals, and got to take lots of pictures, and it was a really fun way to end off a really good track meet.
The lioness was really cool. We got to see it in the very end, so that was kind of the cherry on top. But I also loved seeing giraffes and zebras and rhinos, and we got to see all of that, black rhinos, white rhinos, and a bunch of monkeys.
Rougui Sow- Women’s Long jump-USA
It was amazing. Honestly, I couldn't wait to be here in Nairobi. I traveled from Dakar to here, and everything was just amazing. The organisation, logistics, people. I was really impressed by how kind people were here. So, I'm very excited, and I can't wait to come back next year.
Yeah, so we just went to the Safari earlier this morning, it was breathtaking. I loved watching the sunrise and the animals.
I came in a bit late on Friday evening. I wish I had more time so that I can explore more about Kenya. I loved the competition, and people were cheering for everyone. I mean, I've traveled all around the world, and you don't see that, I mean, everywhere. It was very amazing.
Elisabeth Slettum- Women’s 400m Hurdles- NOR
Oh, it was so much fun. So, many cool animals. So, that was a great experience. Seeing the lioness at the end. She was coming so close, and no, it was just a great experience. Thank you Kip Keino! Thank you, Kenya!
Chidi Okezie- Men’s 400m-NGA
I enjoyed my first Safari. I got to see the big five up close in their natural habitat. I will definitely comeback for holiday. Kenya has favoured me. I ran my PB. I can't complain.
-By Charity Wanja | Freelance Journalist
-Photos: Magical Kenya
