A group of retired athletes from Kenya's North Rift region have expressed discontent with Athletics Kenya (AK), citing the exclusion of the Eldoret City Marathon from the federation's 2027 calendar of activities. The athletes, led by 2000 Olympics silver medalist Wilson Boit Kipketer, claim that AK's decision to drop the annual event is malicious. They are questioning the reasons behind this move, speculating that it may be driven by politics or a reaction to the event's organizers challenging AK's viability.
The Eldoret City Marathon, typically held in April, has been a significant event for Kenyan and international athletes, offering a cumulative prize money of Ksh 18 million annually. Since its inception seven years ago, the marathon has benefited over 280 athletes, with a total prize money of over Ksh 126 million. Kipketer, a 1997 World 3000m steeplechase champion, accused AK of doing a disservice to the athletes who have gained from participating in the marathon.
Moses Tanui, the race director, appealed to AK to reconsider and reinstate the Eldoret City Marathon into its calendar. Tanui, a 1991 world 10,000m champion, urged AK to focus on developing athletics rather than engaging in "sideshows." He emphasized that the marathon is organized by athletes and serves as a way to give back to the community.
The controversy surrounding the Eldoret City Marathon's exclusion arises as AK's 2026/27 calendar is already underway, featuring events such as the Cross Country Series. The upcoming events include the Mt Elgon Day Mountain Running and national trials for the World Masters Indoor Championships.
The athletes' concerns are centered on the impact of the marathon's absence on their livelihoods and the athletics community. They are advocating for a more transparent and inclusive approach to event planning and scheduling.
Athletics Kenya's decision to exclude the Eldoret City Marathon from its 2027 calendar has sparked debate within the athletics community. The federation's move has been met with criticism from retired athletes, who argue that the event has contributed significantly to the development of athletics in Kenya.
The situation remains unresolved, with the athletes awaiting a response from Athletics Kenya regarding their concerns. The outcome will likely have implications for the future of the Eldoret City Marathon and the relationship between AK and the athletics community.
Key points
- Retired athletes from Kenya's North Rift region accuse Athletics Kenya of excluding Eldoret City Marathon from 2027 calendar.
- Eldoret City Marathon has benefited over 280 athletes with a cumulative prize money of Ksh 126 million since its inception.
- Athletes are advocating for a more transparent and inclusive approach to event planning and scheduling.
