A total of 20 countries have registered for the 2024 International Schools Sports Federation (ISF) World Cross Country at the Ngong Racecourse, Nairobi, on May 13.
They include hosts Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, Namibia, Morocco, China, Italy, Tunisia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Czech Republic, England, Ireland, Mexico, Luxembourg, Croatia, New Zealand, Chile and French International School-Kenya.
The event will feature three categories; under-12, U15 and U18.
Speaking during the official launch at Ngong race course, Nairobi, local organizing chairman, Hussein Duale promised a kaleidoscope of traditions as the Bomas of Kenya transforms into a vibrant tapestry of global heritage.
“The Bomas of Kenya will be set up for the visiting countries to showcase their diverse cultures. Ngong race course is also fully booked for us,” he stated.
ISF delegate Joseph Olabisi stated that nearly 500 athletes were poised to take part in the championships.
“We already have close to 500 athletes registered for this event. Kenya has given us the opportunity to have the emergence of future world beaters,” Olabisi noted.
“Kenya has made history. Being the first African country to host the World school cross country. On behalf of ISF I say thank you for investing in the young talents,” she added.
Delegates from far-flung lands trickle in from May 9 to 10, to embrace the Kenyan hospitality.
The grand spectacle of the event’s opening ceremony will be on May 11. Paving the way for a cultural day on 12th.
This historic event marks Kenya's crowning achievement as the first African nation to host the prestigious championship. ISF signed a MoU with Kenya on November 2023.
Olabisi sees the event as a catalyst for change, nurturing talent and shaping the destinies of thousands of young athletes.
“It is an opportunity to transform lives and change the story and character of thousands of students,” she added.
Speaking on Kenya’s preparedness to host the event, she said, “We have gone round and inspected every aspect of preparations. I can confidently confirm that Kenya is ready to host this event.”
For AK president Jackson Tuwei, the event is a platform for dreams to take flight, a crucible where raw talent meets opportunity.
“This event will be vital for the children to discover their talents. Some will become world beaters in the future,” he noted.
The Principal Secretary in the ministry of education, Belio Kipsang noted, “We are prepared to host the future of athletics in Nairobi.”
“Kenya is the only country in Africa that could host this event. This is the home of athletic champions,” he added.
