[PHOTOS] Sweat, cheers as Kenya hosts ISF World Cross Country championship

President William Ruto on Sunday graced the International School Federation World Cross Country Championship at Ngong Racecourse.

The 24th ISF Championship brought together 360 athletes from 19 countries, where Kenya had 61 athletes.

Diana Chepkemoi emerged the winner of the 3400m girls U18 category.

Phanuel Kipkosgei won the Under 18 boys' 5.1km race after clocking in at 14:39.8 bagging first-ever career medal.

He was followed by Kevin Kiprop (14:43.6) and Nelson Simiren (14:53.4).

In the Under 15 category, Jane Wangari and Peter Lomurun emerged victorious with the former clocking in at 7:40.8 ahead of Faith Jeptum (7:42:1) and Claire Cherono (7:43.2).

Lomurun finished in 10:18.6, followed by Benson Tipapa Kirinkon (10:22.5) and Dan Kibet who got the third place in 10:33.5.

Ruto was accompanied by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Education CS Ezekiel Machogu.

Acknowledging Kenya's win, Ruto said the athletes' outstanding talent drives the government's commitment to support them.

"Congratulations Team Kenya for your victory in the 2024 International School Federation (ISF) World Cross Country Championship. Your outstanding talent not only enhances our status as a leading athletics giant globally but also drives our commitment to support your potential, ensuring you flourish as we strive for greater heights," he stated.

Congratulating the winners, Sakaja said they are a true testament that Kenya is the hotbed of talent.

"Congratulations Team Kenya and all our young athletes for a sterling performance at the ISF World Schools Cross Country Championship held today at Ngong’ Racecourse. The future is truly bright," he said.