AK president Jackson Tuwei confirmed last week that the comittee applied to have the annual Kip Keino classic upgraded to Diamond League status
Athletics Kenya Nairobi Region chair Barnaba Korir has revealed genuine reasons he thinks the Kip Keino Classic will soon be upgraded to Diamond League status.
There has been a lot of talk of the event potentially being turned into that status, with AK president Jackson Tuwei himself stating during the event’s partnership announcement with Absa that there was a good chance that it would be turned into an event of such status.
Speaking about the event's potential elevation, Tuwei had earlier stated, "We've applied to be considered for the promotion of this annual continental tour to a Diamond League.
"The organization of the Diamond League is slightly different from other events, with its own committee and restricted to only fourteen events worldwide. We're optimistic that this meet will be elevated."
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The discussions around upgrading the Kip Keino Classic come as various stadia across Kenya undergo renovations, including the Kasarani Stadium.
Additionally, the construction of Talanta Sports City is underway, while Nyayo Stadium is set to undergo renovations in 2025. These infrastructural developments aim to bolster Kenya's capacity to host major international events.
Korir has backed Tuwei's optimism, highlighting Kenya's growing prominence on the global sports stage and the country's rich athletic heritage.
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“The world is seeing Kenya. We have had many international competitions, including the recent Safari Rally. Our country boasts exceptional athletes, as well as talented rugby and football players," Korir stated on Citizen TV.
He continued, "Kenya has always been a destination for sports and other activities, and this focus on enhancing infrastructure is a step in the right direction. Track and field, being the dominant sport both in Kenya and globally, stands to benefit significantly."
Korir emphasized the importance of maintaining Kenya's reputation as a powerhouse in athletics, saying, "Kenya is known for athletics, and it's crucial that we continue to focus on track and field to uphold the position we have held for a long time."
With ongoing efforts to upgrade infrastructure and growing international recognition, the Kip Keino Classic's potential elevation to Diamond League status signals a promising future for athletics in Kenya.