Kipruto to defend title, Chebet out of Ndalat Gaa XC

Wold 10,000m bronze medallist Rhonex Kipruto will defend his title at the 11th edition of Ndalat Gaa Cross Country set for tomorrow in Paul Boit Farm, Nandi County.

Sandrafelis Chebet who has won each of the previous two editions is out of the line-up after opting to race in India.

Olympic and double WkIorld 3000m steeplechase champion Conseslus Kipruto, Africa 10000m silver medallist Alice Aprot, World Junior Cross Country Beatrice Chebet as well as Family Bank Half marathon champion Daniel Simiyu are among a cluster of stars set to grace the event.

According to Athletics Kenya (AK) Central Rift chairman Abraham Mutai, the preparations for annual event are complete.

“Everything is in place for tomorrow. We expect to host many athletes both renowned and upcoming as you know this is the home of athletes in this country,” Mutai told Citizen Digital.

The event will consist of 10km races for senior men and women, 8km for junior men and 6km for junior women.

Similarly, events have been lined up for children; 500m (4-6 years boys and girls) 1km (7-10 years boys and girls), 2km (11-12 years boys and girls) and 4km (13-15 years boys and girls).

Women aged 55 years and above will compete in a 2km race same as men aged 60 and above.

Other than witnessing the athletics action, the local community has been urged to turn out in large numbers as they will also benefit from a free medical camp set up by the organisers.

The annual event whose ambassador is the world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge is held annually in memory of the former AK president the late Isaiah Kiplagat.

The event also acts as a curtain raiser to the upcoming Cross-Country season that will culminate in the Africa Cross Country Championships.