Sleep Under the Stars: The Great Chepsaita Cross Country Brings Hospitality Closer to the Course
By Josphat Kebut
The journey to the third edition of the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run has officially begun. On Thursday, the proud village of Chepsaita will host a vibrant media launch organized by the race committee in partnership with Athletics Kenya, setting the stage for what promises to be the most exciting edition yet.
Speaking to Kass FM ahead of the launch, The Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run Patron Farouk Kibet expressed optimism about the preparations and the growing stature of the race.
“We started three years ago with a vision,” he said. “This year we are not just continuing that journey, we are stretching the mark. Athletes, the community and the entire nation will feel it.”
Farouk however urged athletes to intensify their training, noting that the rewards this year will be bigger and more interesting with also athletes from other countries expected to participate in the third edition.
“Some people are saying the race and the awards are a matter of life and death, kufa kupona,” he remarked. “But I say it is a matter of life itself. It is about improving, about changing the lives of our athletes and the community.”
Athletics Kenya will on Thursday outline the technical aspects of the race and unveil the course with an inspection of the route expected too.
According to Barnaba Korir, Athletics Kenya Executive and NOC-K First Vice President, the route will remain largely the same with only minor adjustments within the course that will not alter it significantly.
Farouk further revealed that Chepsaita is preparing to welcome visitors to a unique touch of adventure.
“Chepsaita is not just hosting a race, we are creating an adventure. Visitors will sleep in camps and tents under the stars, just like the Maasai Mara—surrounded by nature, not hotel walls. Why sleep in Eldoret when you can live the Chepsaita experience? This race belongs to the athletes, to the community, and to the world. Book your spot, it’s affordable, it’s available, and it’s waiting for you right here in Chepsaita.”
This bold vision positions the race as more than just a competition, it is fast becoming a festival of athletics, culture and community.
“We want to export Chepsaita to the world,” Farouk declared with pride.
The 2025 Great Chepsaita Cross Country is set for December 6 in Chepkemel, Chepsaita, Turbo of Uasin Gishu County.
Adding prestige to this year’s edition, the Chief Guest will be Rt. Hon. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Chepsaita is ready. The athletes are ready. The countdown has begun.
#RunForEducation #ChepsaitaRun #Chepsaita2025 #Chepsaita
