Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run Set for December 6, 2025, With Record Turnout and Expanded Community Impact

By Wasike Elvis

The excitement is mounting as the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run gears up for its 2025 edition, scheduled for Saturday, December 6, at the Chepkemel Secondary School grounds in Eldoret. This year's event is shaping up to be the largest and most competitive yet, with organisers projecting participation from more than 10,000 athletes representing 41 countries—an impressive testament to the event’s rising prominence on the global athletics stage.

Race patron Farouk Kibet confirmed that all plans are in place to deliver a well-coordinated and action-packed event. He noted that the day’s programme will commence at 8 a.m. with teen races, setting the tone for a full day of thrilling athletic contests. 

“All preparations are complete and the program will start at 8 a.m. with teen races,” said Kibet, expressing confidence that the 2025 race will surpass expectations in terms of organisation, attendance, and competitive spirit.

Over the past three years, the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run has experienced remarkable growth, both in athlete turnout and international visibility. Race director Barnaba Korir attributed this transformation to improved event structures, increased prize money, and the race’s commitment to nurturing talent at all levels. “It’s a very important race for the country. It is among the highest-paying cross country events in the world, and one of its unique features is that athletes will be rewarded up to position 30 in all categories,” Korir said. He added that the improved ranking and rewards system has positioned the event as a preferred destination for both emerging and elite runners.

The 2025 competition will feature a wide range of categories including teen, junior, Under-20, and elite races. This inclusive structure is designed to give opportunities to young talent while also attracting world-class athletes eager to compete for top honours. In the elite category, both men’s and women’s champions will walk away with Sh750,000, while the second-place finishers will receive Sh500,000. Those finishing third will be awarded Sh300,000, making it one of the most lucrative cross country events globally.

Beyond the competition, the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run continues to impact local communities through its robust scholarship and school support programme. According to Korir, the initiative has so far supported more than 1,600 students from various schools by covering their school fees. Additionally, 22 schools have each received Sh1 million in support, enhancing learning environments and easing the financial burden on families. “This will go a long way in assisting children from humble backgrounds,” Korir emphasised, underscoring the event’s role in empowering youth through education.

Local leaders, community members, and athletics enthusiasts have lauded the event not only for promoting sports excellence but also for boosting the local economy. The influx of athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators is expected to significantly benefit Eldoret’s hospitality and transport sectors. Vendors around the Chepkemel area also anticipate increased business opportunities during the race weekend.

As the countdown to December 6 continues, anticipation is building among athletes eager to test their endurance on the challenging Chepsaita course, known for its unique terrain and enthusiastic crowds. With record-breaking participation, attractive prizes, and a strong community-oriented mission, the 2025 Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run is poised to further solidify its status as one of the most influential athletic events in the region—and a key fixture on the global cross country calendar.

The excitement is mounting as the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run gears up for its 2025 edition, scheduled for Saturday, December 6, at the Chepkemel Secondary School grounds in Eldoret. This year's event is shaping up to be the largest and most competitive yet, with organisers projecting participation from more than 10,000 athletes representing 41 countries—an impressive testament to the event’s rising prominence on the global athletics stage.

Race patron Farouk Kibet confirmed that all plans are in place to deliver a well-coordinated and action-packed event. He noted that the day’s programme will commence at 8 a.m. with teen races, setting the tone for a full day of thrilling athletic contests. “All preparations are complete and the program will start at 8 a.m. with teen races,” said Kibet, expressing confidence that the 2025 race will surpass expectations in terms of organisation, attendance, and competitive spirit.

Over the past three years, the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run has experienced remarkable growth, both in athlete turnout and international visibility. Race director Barnaba Korir attributed this transformation to improved event structures, increased prize money, and the race’s commitment to nurturing talent at all levels. “It’s a very important race for the country. It is among the highest-paying cross country events in the world, and one of its unique features is that athletes will be rewarded up to position 30 in all categories,” Korir said. He added that the improved ranking and rewards system has positioned the event as a preferred destination for both emerging and elite runners.

The 2025 competition will feature a wide range of categories including teen, junior, Under-20, and elite races. This inclusive structure is designed to give opportunities to young talent while also attracting world-class athletes eager to compete for top honours. In the elite category, both men’s and women’s champions will walk away with Sh750,000, while the second-place finishers will receive Sh500,000. Those finishing third will be awarded Sh300,000, making it one of the most lucrative cross country events globally.

Beyond the competition, the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run continues to impact local communities through its robust scholarship and school support programme. According to Korir, the initiative has so far supported more than 1,600 students from various schools by covering their school fees. Additionally, 22 schools have each received Sh1 million in support, enhancing learning environments and easing the financial burden on families. “This will go a long way in assisting children from humble backgrounds,” Korir emphasised, underscoring the event’s role in empowering youth through education.

Local leaders, community members, and athletics enthusiasts have lauded the event not only for promoting sports excellence but also for boosting the local economy. The influx of athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators is expected to significantly benefit Eldoret’s hospitality and transport sectors. Vendors around the Chepkemel area also anticipate increased business opportunities during the race weekend.

As the countdown to December 6 continues, anticipation is building among athletes eager to test their endurance on the challenging Chepsaita course, known for its unique terrain and enthusiastic crowds. With record-breaking participation, attractive prizes, and a strong community-oriented mission, the 2025 Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run is poised to further solidify its status as one of the most influential athletic events in the region—and a key fixture on the global cross country calendar.