Preparations in High Gear for 2025 ABSA Kip Keino Classic as Nyayo Stadium Gets Major Upgrade
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Preparations in High Gear for 2025 ABSA Kip Keino Classic as Nyayo Stadium Gets Major Upgrade
Preparations for the 2025 ABSA Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour are in full swing, with Nyayo National Stadium undergoing a major facelift, including the installation of a new tartan track. The much-anticipated event is scheduled to take place on May 31, 2025.
Speaking on Kass FM’s Morning Show Lee Nee Emet, Barnaba Korir, CEO of the Kip Keino Classic, made a passionate appeal to Kenyan fans to show up in large numbers, emphasizing that a packed stadium could significantly boost Kenya’s chances of hosting the 2029 World Athletics Championships and potentially earn a spot on the prestigious Diamond League circuit.
“We must fill Nyayo Stadium. It is not just about watching a race; it’s about showing the world and the World Athletics body that Kenya lives and breathes this sport,” said Korir.
He described the Kip Keino Classic not just as a one-day meet but as a national statement of pride and ambition, saying fan turnout would be a powerful message to global athletics stakeholders.
Korir also highlighted how athletics has transformed communities in Kenya, building schools, homes, and changing lives.
He urged Kenyans to embrace patriotism through sport and called on the government to increase its support, pointing to ongoing efforts to transform athletics into a full-fledged industry capable of creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
“This sport has built schools, homes, and futures. Let’s support it like it has supported us,” he emphasized.
Boost to Global Competitiveness
Korir emphasized that the Kip Keino Classic will play a pivotal role in boosting performance across various disciplines, particularly the 10,000m and 5,000m races, as athletes gear up for the World Championships in Tokyo.
Sprinters and middle-distance runners are also expected to benefit from Nairobi’s high-altitude conditions, which offer a natural edge in training.
“With the new tartan track and state-of-the-art timing equipment, the Kip Keino Classic offers athletes the perfect platform to prepare for both the World Championships and the national trials,” said Korir.
“This isn’t just a competition — it’s a critical part of our journey to global excellence.”
As the countdown to May 31 continues, Korir concluded with a call to action:
“We are working around the clock. Come witness the transformation and be part of history.”
