Korir hails world-class Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour as preparations conclude

The Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour was launched in Eldoret on Tuesday as elite athletes applauded its remarkable development into a world-class race.

While officiating the launch, the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) and the race president said the race has been ranked as a world cross country.

While confirming the conclusion of the preparations, Korir rallied retired Kenyan athletes to own the cross country through support as a way of supporting emerging talents.

Race technical director Ibrahim Hussein noted that the cross-country has its own rules, and those mandated to work on the course should follow it as laid out.

"Organizers always get excited; they want to change the race to look like that of others. Every race is different," said Hussein.

Athletes led by world record holder Eliud Kipchoge and Daniel Ebenyo praised the SCWCT, saying it has played a key role in bringing up the upcoming athletes.

Kipchoge said cross country serves as an early test of talent, allowing individuals to develop in athletics, saying it's an excellent foundation in career athletics.

He challenged the athletics leadership to do their best in providing serious discipline in athletics and mentoring young upcoming athletes and developing them for long-lasting careers.

Ebenyo who has shown interest in participating in this year's edition said, "the race has grown to be one of the respected in the country; it has challenged me and prepared me to greater success."