Ebenyo and Ngetich Headline a Deep, Youth-Rich Field at Sirikwa Classic 2026

ELDORET, Kenya, Feb 5, 2025—When the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country returns to Lobo Village, Kapseret, on February 14, 2026, it will once again affirm its status as one of the most competitive fixtures on the World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold calendar. The fifth edition brings together established global performers, hardened domestic contenders, and a rising generation of junior athletes eager to test themselves on a world-class stage.

At the heart of the senior races are Daniel Ebenyo and Agnes Ngetich, two athletes whose consistency across cross country, road, and track has elevated them into the elite tier of global distance running. Their presence sets the tone for the men’s and women’s 10km races—events expected to be shaped by depth, tactical nuance, and sustained pressure rather than reputation alone.

Agnes Ngetich, winner of the 2025 Senior Women 10Km

Daniel Ebenyo, winner of the 2025 Senior Men 10Km

Ebenyo: Precision Under Pressure in the Men’s 10km

For Daniel Ebenyo, Sirikwa is a familiar and unforgiving test. The Kapseret course rewards athletes who can manage repeated surges, maintain rhythm on rolling terrain, and deliver strength deep into the race—qualities that define Ebenyo’s racing profile.

Yet the invitation to the men’s field ensures he will be under constant pressure. Among the standout challengers is Nicholas Kipkorir Kimeli, whose consistency across cross country and road racing makes him a constant presence in tactical contests. His composure in crowded pack positions him as a serious podium threat.

Also lining up is Samwel Chebolei, a strength-based runner whose endurance and willingness to force the pace could turn the race into an early war of attrition. Boniface Kiplimo brings a different dimension—track-honed speed capable of reshaping the contest if the pace remains controlled into the final kilometres.

Further depth comes from Isaac Kibet and Brian Kipchumba, both comfortable in high-density racing scenarios and capable of capitalising on late-race opportunities. With the yet to be confirmed senior foreign representation, the men’s 10km is expected to be dictated by internal Kenyan rivalries, where timing, positioning, and tactical clarity will determine whether Ebenyo can assert control.

Agnes Ngetich: Authority Tested in a Crowded Women’s 10km

In the women’s 10km, Agnes Ngetich arrives as the athlete to beat. Renowned for her assertive front-running style and exceptional speed endurance, Ngetich has demonstrated an ability to control races across varying terrain. Sirikwa’s undulating layout suits her capacity to stretch the field gradually rather than relying on a single decisive move.

Still, the invited field is rich with challengers capable of testing that authority. Janet Chepngetich brings extensive cross-country experience and strength over rolling courses, making her dangerous if the race evolves into a prolonged endurance contest. Cynthia Chepngeno, versatile across cross country and road racing, adds unpredictability with her ability to maintain tempo over long distances.

Also in contention is Gladys Chepkurui, whose race intelligence and positioning skills are valuable assets on a course where tactical errors are costly. Stancy Chepkwemoi, one of the younger athletes stepping into senior competition, represents the fearless next generation—runners willing to push the pace early and disrupt established patterns.

With limited foreign presence in the senior women’s race, the contest is expected to unfold through layered domestic pressure, demanding patience and control from Ngetich at every stage.

Youth at the Core: Kenyan U20 Standouts Take Center Stage

Beyond the senior races, the U20 men’s (8km) and U20 women’s (6km) contests remain central to the Sirikwa Classic’s identity, offering a glimpse into the future of Kenyan distance running.

In the U20 men’s race, Phanuel Kipkosgei Koech emerges as one of the most closely watched prospects. Known for his fearless racing style and strength on undulating terrain, Koech has the tools to force early separation. He is joined by Kiprono Menjo, whose consistency and composure in junior competitions mark him as a strong podium contender.

Further depth comes from Brian Kibet and Collins Kipngetich, both of whom have shown resilience and tactical awareness beyond their years—traits essential on the demanding Lobo Village course.

The U20 women’s race is equally compelling, led by Judith Chepkemoi, whose blend of speed and composure has placed her among the top junior runners nationally. Mary Jepkosgei brings endurance and racing maturity, while Brenda Chebet adds an aggressive edge, often willing to inject pace early and reshape the race dynamic.

Completing a formidable Kenyan contingent is Sheila Cherotich, reinforcing the depth that has long defined Kenya’s junior ranks. While Ugandan athletes add regional rivalry, particularly in the women’s race, the Kenyan U20 runners remain the benchmark.

A Course That Rewards Commitment

Ultimately, the Lobo Village course remains the great equalizer. Its fast grass sections, rolling terrain, and exposure to the elements reward bravery and punish hesitation. For Ebenyo and Ngetich, Sirikwa Classic 2026 is about asserting leadership amid relentless competition. For the U20 athletes, it is a proving ground where futures begin to take shape.

As the starter’s gun fires in Kapseret, one certainty remains: Sirikwa Classic is not won easily. It is earned through tactical clarity, physical resilience, and the courage to commit when the race demands it.