Agnes Jebet Ngetich Set to Defend 10km Title at Absa Sirikwa Classic 2026
- Robert Kibet for Sirikwa Classic
- Feb 9
- 3 min read
Eldoret, Kenya – February 2026: Defending champion Agnes Jebet Ngetich is back on her home turf this weekend, ready to defend her women’s 10km crown at the fifth edition of the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country, now a World Athletics Gold Label event. After a sensational season opener, including a World Cross Country title in the United States last month, Ngetich arrives in Eldoret confident, focused, and determined to leave her mark once again.
“Racing at home is always special. I love running in Eldoret, and defending my title means a lot to me. Right now, my focus is on my own race, but running with my colleagues also pushes all of us to be better,” she said, reflecting on the unique significance of competing in her hometown.
A Lifelong Passion for Cross Country
For Ngetich, cross country is not just a discipline—it is a lifelong passion. While she has also excelled on the track and in road races, it was the varied, challenging terrain of cross country that first drew her into competitive running as a young girl.
“Cross country has always been my first love. On the track it’s about rhythm and speed, and on the road it’s about pace. But in cross country, you need everything—strength, speed, and the ability to adapt every moment,” she explains.
Ngetich thrives on the unpredictability of cross country. The course changes constantly, with rolling hills, muddy patches, and sharp turns demanding both strategy and resilience.
“There’s freedom in cross country, running on natural terrain. That’s what makes it beautiful. You need to be ready for anything the course throws at you,” she adds.
Her versatility and adaptability make her a formidable competitor, and her deep connection to the sport shines through whenever she steps on the course.
Coming Off International Success
Ngetich’s presence at the Sirikwa Classic this year is more than just a title defense—it is also a celebration of her growing international stature. Fresh from her triumph at the World Cross Country Championships in the United States, she is coming into this race with renewed confidence and momentum.
“We’ve made good plans with my coach, and this race fits very well into my season. After winning the world title, racing here at home feels right. I want to give back to Kenya. I’m healthy and training well, so I expect good things. A strong performance here will motivate me and build confidence for the season ahead,” Ngetich said.
Her words reflect not only ambition but also a sense of responsibility to her country and the local running community. By competing in Eldoret, she hopes to inspire the next generation of Kenyan runners and showcase the high level of competition that the Sirikwa Classic has consistently delivered.
The Challenge of Eldoret
The Absa Sirikwa Classic is renowned for its varied terrain and challenging conditions, and this year promises no less. The Eldoret course, with its rolling hills and natural obstacles, has tested both local and international athletes since the event’s inception. For Ngetich, familiarity with the course is an advantage, but it also carries expectations.
“I know the course well, but cross country is never easy. Every race is different, and you must be ready for anything,” she said.
The event attracts some of the world’s top cross-country runners, including international Gold Label competitors and elite Kenyan athletes. With the defending champion returning, the stakes are high, and fans can expect a thrilling contest from start to finish.
More Than a Race
For Ngetich, the Sirikwa Classic is about more than just medals. It is about giving back to the local running community and showcasing the beauty of cross country in Kenya. She hopes that her performance will inspire young athletes, particularly girls, to take up the sport and pursue it with dedication.
“Running here at home is special because it allows me to connect with the community and inspire the next generation. I want to show them that with hard work and discipline, anything is possible,” she says.
The Absa Sirikwa Classic is not only about elite competition. While U20 and Elite races are by invitation only, the event also welcomes young runners and families through Kids and Fun Runs, ensuring that everyone can experience the thrill of cross country.
With Ngetich defending her title and an elite international field ready to challenge her, this edition promises excitement, world-class competition, and unforgettable moments on the hills of Eldoret.
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