Legendary athletes from Kenya's North Rift region have expressed disappointment and concern over Athletics Kenya's decision to exclude the Eldoret City Marathon from its calendar. The athletes, led by former 3,000m steeplechase runner Wilson Boit Kipketer, argue that the marathon has been a vital platform for upcoming athletes, providing lucrative prize money that has supported hundreds of athletes over the past seven years.
According to Kipketer, more than 280 athletes have benefited from the Eldoret City Marathon, and its omission from this year's calendar will deny many runners an important opportunity to earn money and advance their careers. He challenged Athletics Kenya to explain the reasons behind the decision, emphasizing that personal differences and political interests should not disadvantage athletes.
The athletes also questioned the legitimacy of Athletics Kenya officials' continued tenure, alleging that they have used court orders to extend their terms. They further accused some officials of conflicts of interest within the federation, which they believe has led to biased decisions, including the exclusion of the Eldoret City Marathon.
Former world champion Christopher Kosgei echoed similar sentiments, stating that the exclusion threatens the ambitions of emerging athletes from the region. Kosgei questioned the criteria used to determine which races feature on the Athletics Kenya calendar and called on the government to intervene and address governance concerns within the athletics governing body.
Eldoret City Marathon race director Moses Tanui also accused Athletics Kenya of bias over the omission of the event. Tanui made the remarks during a press conference in Eldoret, where he launched registration for this year's event. The marathon's patron expressed concerns that the exclusion could undermine the careers of upcoming athletes who rely on the event for financial support.
The exclusion of the Eldoret City Marathon from the Athletics Kenya calendar has sparked a heated debate in the athletics community, with many stakeholders calling for a review of the decision. The athletes have urged Athletics Kenya to reconsider its decision and prioritize the interests of athletes over personal and political interests.
The Eldoret City Marathon has been a significant event in Kenya's athletics calendar, providing a platform for athletes to compete and earn prize money. Its exclusion has raised concerns about the governance and decision-making processes within Athletics Kenya, with many stakeholders demanding greater transparency and accountability.
Key points
- Legendary athletes from Kenya's North Rift region criticize Athletics Kenya for excluding Eldoret City Marathon from its calendar.
- Athletes argue that the marathon has supported hundreds of athletes over the past seven years through its lucrative prize money.
- The exclusion has sparked concerns about governance and decision-making processes within Athletics Kenya.
