From Schoolyards to the Olympics: Chepsaita 2025 Shapes Future Champions

A Race Beyond Sport

The Great Chepsaita Cross Country  Run Gold Label is back, and this year promises to be bigger and more impactful than ever. Speaking on Citizen TV’s Monday SpotOn, Race Director Barnaba Korir revealed that over 8,000 athletes have already registered, including 1,600 elite runners, with registrations still open.

 “Chepsaita is more than a race—it’s a movement for education, sport, and community. We are building champions today and preparing for the Olympics 2028 and 2032,” Korir said. The event is on track to surpass 10,000 participants, cementing its place as one of the largest cross-country competitions in the world.

Chepsaita goes beyond running, combining athletic excellence, education, and community development. Twenty schools have already been sponsored, each receiving 1 million KES to support 100 students, with plans to expand from Uasin Gishu to neighboring counties. Beyond student support, the initiative is also improving local infrastructure, including roads, water, electricity, and medical access, leaving a lasting impact on host communities.

Korir emphasized the holistic approach of the event: “This event belongs to the people, not an individual. When the community embraces it, it thrives for generations, benefiting both athletes and local families,” he said. This perspective reflects Chepsaita’s commitment to ensuring the programme is sustainable, community-driven, and accessible to young athletes from all walks of life.

Pathways for Future Champions

More than 57 junior camps nationwide have been established, producing the current crop of global champions and creating pathways for young athletes to pursue higher education and international competitions. We are endeavoring to link school athletes to NCAA programs, universities, and global competitions, ensuring that talent is nurtured and retained.

The programme also serves as a blueprint for Kenya’s broader sporting ambitions. Korir shared that the initiative is part of a long-term strategy to prepare athletes for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and 2032, ensuring proper preparation across federations. With elite competition, youth development, and community engagement at its core, Chepsaita is shaping the next generation of athletes who can compete—and win—on the global stage.

Preparations for this year’s edition are already underway, with sponsors, government agencies, and community members contributing to the event’s success. Korir highlighted that the race also provides opportunities for educational and social development, reinforcing Kenya’s position as a global hub for middle- and long-distance running talent.

As Chepsaita 2025 approaches, expectations are high. With a growing number of participants, extensive community benefits, and a clear vision for the future, the race continues to demonstrate how sport can transform lives, empower communities, and nurture champions. Chepsaita is not just a cross-country race—it is a movement that combines athletic talent, education, and social responsibility, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.