Absa Bank Kenya Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, Charles Wokabi (Center), presents the official medals for the Absa Sirikwa Cross Country set to take place in February. With him are 2025 defending champions Agnes Jebet Ngetich (Left) and Daniel Ebenyo (Right).
Absa Bank Kenya has renewed its sponsorship of the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country with a Ksh. 8 million investment, officially becoming the Title Sponsor of the 2026 Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country.
The globally acclaimed event, a World Athletics Gold Level Cross Country Tour competition, returns for its 5th edition on Saturday, 14 February 2026, at Lobo Village in Kapseret, Eldoret — Kenya’s famed high-altitude athletics hub.Now firmly established as one of the most prestigious cross-country meetings on the international calendar, the Absa Sirikwa Classic continues to grow in stature — bigger, more competitive, and more inclusive than ever before.
The 2026 edition is set to attract elite global athletes, rising young talents, and grassroots runners, all competing on Eldoret’s iconic endurance-testing terrain.Speaking during the launch, Absa Bank Kenya’s Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, Charles Wokabi, said the Bank’s continued investment underscores its long-term commitment to nurturing Kenya’s athletics excellence.
“Through sport, we are able to unlock human potential, inspire communities, and create pathways for young athletes to turn talent into sustainable careers, while showcasing Kenya’s rich athletics heritage to the world,” said Mr. Wokabi.
He emphasized that the sponsorship forms part of Absa’s broader seven-year partnership with Athletics Kenya.
“We are committed to deepening talent development by enhancing the quality and competitiveness of our local meets and creating sustainable platforms like the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country that provide growth pathways into the global stage for our athletes,” he added.
Athletics Kenya President Lt Gen. (Rtd) Jack Tuwei lauded the continued partnership, noting the event’s impact beyond competition.
“Beyond competition, the Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country continues to play a vital role in developing young talent, inspiring grassroots participation, and positioning Eldoret and Kenya as the global home of distance running,” he said.With live international broadcast coverage, global media presence, and thousands of spectators expected, the 5th edition promises a thrilling showcase of endurance, speed, and world-class athletic excellence.
World-Class Athletes ConfirmedThe 2026 edition will feature an exceptional lineup of global stars, including:Agnes Jebet Ngetich – World Cross Country ChampionDaniel Simiu Ebenyo – World Cross Country Bronze MedalistSupported by visiting guest stars:Beatrice Chebet – Two-time World Cross Country ChampionGeoffrey Kamworor – Former New York City Marathon ChampionTheir presence further cements the Absa Sirikwa Classic’s reputation as a premier global cross-country competition and a celebration of Kenya’s continued dominance in distance running.As anticipation builds, all roads now lead to Eldoret for what promises to be one of the most electrifying events on the 2026 global athletics calendar.
