Under-20 Cross Country defending champion Kevin Kiprop is set to defend his record as he faces newly minted World U-20 cross country champion Frankline Kibet in Sirikwa’s classic tournament this weekend.
The pair have unfinished business from last year’s Sirikwa contest, where Kiprop dug deep to edge Kibet and snatch the crown in 24:24, with the latter forced to settle for second in 24:27.
Saturday’s rematch promises fireworks between the two youngsters, both eager to stamp authority on a course that is widely regarded as a theatre of emerging greatness.
In Florida on January 10, the 18-year-old timed his charge to perfection, storming to the U-20 crown in 23:18 and leading Kenya to a commanding top-four sweep.
Emmanuel Kiprono claimed silver in 23:20, Andrew Alamisi sealed the podium in 23:28, while Andrew Kiptoo narrowly missed out after coming fourth in 23:42.
Beyond the global stage, Kibet has also shown his consistency on the local circuit.
At last year’s National Cross Country Championships in Eldoret, he powered to second place in 24:25, finishing just behind Kiprono, who won in 24:22.
On that occasion, Kiprop endured a rare off day, fading to fifth in 24:36.
Despite his struggles, Kiprop still remains a formidable figure in the cross country, boasting the 2024 Great Chepsaita Cross Country U-20 crown where he cut the tape in 24:37 leaving Alamisi (24:54) and Edwin Sanutia (25:26) in his wake.
Also lining up for the Sirikwa battle is last year’s third place finisher Kimorwo alongside world silver medallist Kiprono, adding further depth to an already competitive field.
