University of Eldoret duo target FISU World Cross Country slots

The University of Eldoret pair of Nicholas Ekeno and Gomeri Chebet have set their sights on securing slots for the International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Cross Country Championships scheduled for March 14–15 in Casale Monferrato, Italy.

The duo are among hundreds of university students expected to battle for national honours during the Kenya University Sports Federation (KUSF) national trials, which will be staged on Saturday, January 31, at South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) in Kitui County.

Speaking during their final training session at Kitui Stadium on Friday evening, the athletes said they are fully prepared for the challenge following the conclusion of the regional conference trials held last weekend across the country.

Team captain Ekeno revealed that missing out on a slot for the 2025 World University Games in Germany motivated him to shift focus and target qualification for the World Cross Country Championships.

The third-year student, who draws inspiration from newly crowned World Cross Country bronze medallist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo, remains confident of delivering strong results.

“As a captain, I’m hoping to do my best for the title since I have trained well. We are here to win and qualify as a team. We are not here to participate but to compete. For our rivals, come well prepared,” said Ekeno, adding that he has taken Ebenyo’s advice seriously.

Ekeno earned his national trials slot after finishing second in both the 10,000m and 3,000m races during the Rift Valley Conference Championships held last weekend at Kabarak University.

“All my teammates qualified during the conference championships. We hope to do our best, just like Ebenyo who trains on our grounds. He is a fighter,” he added.

Chebet, a second-year Bachelor of Education (Science) student, is equally determined to impress at the trials and book her ticket to Italy.

“I want to make the team to Italy and continue nurturing my talent. I have been doing speed work, and last weekend I won both the 10,000m and 3,000m to qualify for the national trials. I am well prepared for the challenge and I want to win and earn a slot,” said Chebet.

Chebet disclosed that her athletics journey began at the university, having previously played volleyball during her high school years.

“In primary school, I competed in the 1,500m. In high school, I played volleyball, but the morning runs helped me realise I could perform well in athletics,” she said.