Absa Bank Kenya has renewed its sponsorship of the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country with a Ksh. 8 million investment in this year’s edition, becoming the Title Sponsor for the 2026 edition. 

The globally acclaimed Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country, a World Athletics Gold Level Cross Country Tour event, returns for its 5th edition on Saturday, 14 February 2026, at the Lobo Village, Kapseret, Eldoret.

Now firmly established as one of the most prestigious cross-country meetings on the international calendar, the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country continues to grow in stature - bigger, more competitive, and more inclusive than ever before. The 2026 edition will once again attract the world’s best athletes, rising young talents, and grassroots runners, all competing on Eldoret’s iconic high-altitude terrain.

Speaking during the launch of the 2026 edition, Absa Bank Kenya’s Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, Charles Wokabi, said the Bank’s continued investment reaffirms its commitment to nurturing athletic excellence and Kenya’s rich athletics prowess. 

“Through sport, we are able to unlock human potential, inspire communities, and create pathways for young athletes to turn talent into sustainable careers, while showcasing Kenya’s rich athletics heritage to the world,” said Mr. Wokabi. 

“This is why we are committed to ensuring that our seven-year partnership with Athletics Kenya remains strong to deepen talent development by enhancing the quality and competitiveness of our local meets and creating sustainable platforms like the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country that create growth pathways into the global stage for our athletes,” he added.

On his part, Lt Gen. (Rtd) Jack Tuwei, President, Athletics Kenya said: “Beyond competition, the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country continues to play a vital role in developing young talent, inspiring grassroot participation and positioning Eldoret and Kenya as the global home of distance running.” 

With live broadcast coverage, international media presence and thousands of spectators expected, the 5th edition promises a thrilling showcase of endurance, speed and athletic excellence. 

World-Class Athletes Confirmed

 This year’s event will feature an exceptional lineup of global stars, including:

• Agnes Jebet Ngetich - World Cross Country Champion
• Daniel Simiu Ebenyo - World Cross Country Bronze Medalist

Supported by our visiting guest-stars:

• Beatrice Chebet - Two-time World Cross Country Champion
• Geoffrey Kamworor - Former New York City Marathon Champion

Their presence underscores the Absa Sirikwa Classic’s status as a premier global cross-country competition and a true celebration of Kenya’s dominance in distance running. 

Event Program – Saturday, 14 February, 2026 

The Sirikwa Classic offers a full day of racing across age groups, ensuring community participation alongside elite competition:

 Morning – Youth Races 

·        09:00 – 13-15 yrs Boys (2km)

·        09:20 – 13-15 yrs Girls (2km)

·        10:00 – 9-12 yrs Boys (1km)

·        10:10 – 9-12 yrs Girls (1km)

·        10:40 – 5-8 yrs Boys (500m)

·        10:50 – 5-8 yrs Girls (500m)

 Midday & Afternoon – Championship Races

• 12:10 – Elite Women (2km Loop Race)
• 12:30 – Elite Men (2km Loop Race)
• 13:15 – U20 Women (6km)
• 13:45 – U20 Men (8km)
• 14:25 – Elite Men (10km)
• 15:10 – Elite Women (10km)

 Significant Prize Money on Offer 

The Sirikwa Classic Cross Country boasts one of the most attractive prize money structures on the World Athletics Cross Country Tour, rewarding excellence across elite, U20, and loop races.

Elite Race Prize Money (USD): 

• 1st:        $6,000
• 2nd:        $5,000
• 3rd:        $4,000
• 4th:        $3,000
• 5th:        $2,500
• 6th:        $2,000
• 7th:        $1,500
• 8th:        $1,000
• 9th:        $800
• 10th:        $600
• 11th-12th:        $400
• 13th-15th:        $200

U20 Race Prize Money (USD):

• 1st:    $1,250
• 2nd:    $1,000
• 3rd:    $800
• 4th:    $600
• 5th:    $400
• 6th:    $300
• 7th-10th:    $200

 2km Loop Race Prize Money (USD):

• 1st:  $2,000
• 2nd:  $1,500
• 3rd:  $1,000
• 4th:  $750
• 5th:  $500
• 6th:  $400
• 7th:  $300
• 8th:  $200
• 9th-10th:  $100

 Beyond competition, the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country continues to play a vital role in developing young talent, inspiring grassroots participation, and positioning Eldoret and Kenya as the global home of distance running. With live broadcast coverage, international media presence, and thousands of spectators expected, the 5th edition promises a thrilling showcase of endurance, speed, and athletic excellence.