Njoki Eyes Redemption as Global Stars Assemble for Sirikwa Classic Showdown

Fresh from her victory at the 35th edition of the Discovery Cross Country race in Eldoret, Maryam Lufti Njoki is shifting her focus to a bigger assignment — the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country set for Saturday, February 14, at Lobo Village in Kapseret, Uasin Gishu County.

The Qatar-based runner returns to the World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold meeting with unfinished business on her mind. When she last tackled the demanding Sirikwa course in 2023, she crossed the finish line in 12th place — a respectable result at the time, but one she now believes she can significantly improve.

“I last ran on this course back in 2023 when I had little experience compared to now. I want to come and try my best this time and improve my position,” Njoki said.

Three years ago, she competed under her birth name, Christine Njoki. Since then, she has switched allegiance to Qatar and adopted the name Maryam Lufti Njoki, marking a new chapter in her athletics career. The change has coincided with her steady rise in form and confidence, and she arrives at this year’s Sirikwa Classic buoyed by her recent triumph in Eldoret.

The Sirikwa Classic course at Lobo Village is renowned for its technical layout — featuring rolling hills, sharp inclines, and sections that test both strength and endurance. With unpredictable weather conditions often adding another layer of difficulty, athletes must combine tactical awareness with physical resilience to contend for top honours.

For Njoki, Saturday’s race is not only about redemption but also about sharpening her fitness ahead of the track season. Cross country has long been a critical foundation for Kenyan and East African athletes transitioning into track campaigns, and Njoki is keen to use the event as a springboard for her 2026 ambitions.

However, the women’s 10km field promises to be one of the most competitive in the event’s history.

Reigning World Cross Country champion Agnes Jebet Ng’etich headlines the star-studded line-up. Ng’etich has been in scintillating form over the past year and will enter the race as one of the firm favourites. Her aggressive front-running style and strength over tough terrain make her a formidable presence on the Sirikwa course.

Uganda’s Joy Cheptoyek, the World cross country silver medalist, will also be in the mix. Cheptoyek has established herself as one of the most consistent performers on the international stage and will be determined to challenge for top honours on Kenyan soil.

Cheptoyek will not be alone. Uganda fields a strong contingent that includes Scovia Chemutai, Martha Chemutai, and 2024 Chepsaita Cross Country champion Loice Chekwemoi. Their presence underscores the growing regional rivalry between Kenya and Uganda in distance running.

Adding another intriguing subplot to the women’s race is Catherine Reline, who now competes for Turkey under the name Can following her change of citizenship. Like Njoki, she is still awaiting clearance from World Athletics. The two former Kenyan athletes could find themselves battling not only established champions but also the expectations that come with representing new nations on the global stage.

From Tanzania, Valeria Daghau and Monica Zanele are also expected to feature prominently, further widening the East African contest in what promises to be a fiercely fought 10km showdown.

The men’s race is equally loaded with international flair and compelling storylines.

Germany’s Hendrik Pfeiffer returns to Lobo Village after competing in last year’s edition, bringing experience and familiarity with the terrain. Ukraine’s Mykola Nyzhnyk, who has continued to train and compete despite the war in his homeland, adds emotional weight to the event. His participation highlights the unifying power of sport even in challenging times.

South Africa’s Tshepo Mphulanyane and Uganda’s Leonard Ndiema are also among the notable international contenders, alongside a strong Kenyan field expected to defend home pride.

As part of the World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold series, the Sirikwa Classic continues to cement its reputation as one of Africa’s premier cross country events. The race not only offers valuable ranking points but also provides a platform for athletes to gauge their readiness ahead of major championships.

With elite runners from across Africa and Europe converging on Uasin Gishu County, fans can expect a high-octane spectacle on Valentine’s Day. For Njoki, the mission is clear — turn experience into excellence and rewrite her Sirikwa story.

Whether she succeeds will depend on how she navigates a course and a field that promise no margin for error. But one thing is certain: the stage is set for a thrilling afternoon of cross country action at Lobo Village.