NAIROBI, Kenya, December 13 – Athletics Kenya (AK) head coach Julius Kirwa believes that the partnership with betting firm Betika has enhanced the competitiveness of the 2024/25 Cross Country Series.
Kirwa says the sponsorship has allowed athletes to better prepare for competitions and attracted an increased number of runners for the series.
“Betika has ensured our athletes receive support to boost their training. They should continue sponsoring cross-country events in the coming years. Many athletes used to skip cross country for road races, which wasn’t ideal for us, but Betika has done something right,” Kirwa said.
The annual series has so far been held in Machakos, Kapsokwony, Iten and Bomet where hundreds of athletes have turned up to fight for top honours across six categories of competition.
Ol Kalou Aboretum will be the battleground for the fifth leg of the series, set for Saturday (December 14).
Preparations have been in high gear all week with Kirwa predicting cutthroat competition in what will be the last athletics event before the Christmas break.
“We have five obstacles in the 2K course and expect over 300 athletes tomorrow,” he added.
Winners of the senior men and women’s 10km races will receive Ksh 50,000 whereas those in the Under 20 men’s 8km and women’s 6km walking home Ksh 30,000 richer.
Meanwhile, winners of the 2km loop will walk away with Ksh 10,000.
Beyond the monetary gains, Kirwa believes that the Ol Kalou leg is an opportunity for all participants to improve on their endurance.
“This region is ideal for building endurance, especially for athletes training at lower altitudes. Cross country is essential for developing strength, stamina, and resilience, making it a key part of any athlete’s preparation,” Kirwa observed.
