Why Agnes and Ebenyo Are Returning to Defend Their Sirikwa Classic Crowns

World Cross Country champion Agnes Ng'etich and Daniel Ebenyo Simiu during the 2026 Launch of Sirikwa Classic Cross Country in Eldoret.Photo/Sportcast Africa.

Fresh from their heroics on the global stage, World Cross Country champion Agnes Jebet Ngetich and bronze medallist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo have confirmed they will return to familiar hunting ground to defend their crowns at the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country, a World Cross Country Tour Gold Label event set for February 14 at Lobo Village, Eldoret.

For Ngetich, the Sirikwa Classic is more than just another race on the calendar. It is a platform that reflects growth, opportunity and continuity in Kenyan athletics. Speaking during the official launch of the event, the newly crowned world champion praised the organisers for sustaining a competition that continues to shape young talent while attracting elite runners from across the globe.

She believes defending her title is a way of giving back to the event that has supported athletes at different stages of their careers.

“I thank Athletics Kenya for investing in this race because it gives young athletes a chance to nurture their talent,” said Ngetich. “It also falls on Valentine’s Day, so I’m looking forward to celebrating it at the finish line.”

For Daniel Ebenyo, the Sirikwa Classic has been a defining pillar in his rise on the international scene. The two-time champion credits the event for sharpening his competitive edge, boosting his confidence and preparing him for the demands of major championships.

Ebenyo explained that the intensity and quality of competition at Lobo Village offer ideal conditioning ahead of international assignments , a formula that has already paid dividends in his career.

“Winning the Sirikwa Classic in the last two editions gave me a huge boost,” Ebenyo said. “The race challenged me and prepared me for bigger goals. It played a key role in my build-up to the World Cross Country Championships, where I went on to win a bronze medal for Kenya.”

As defending champions, both athletes head into the 2026 edition with more than titles to protect. They return as proven global performers, eager to test themselves again on Kenyan soil, inspire upcoming runners and reaffirm why the Sirikwa Classic has become one of the most respected stops on the World Cross Country Tour.

All eyes will be on February 14 as Ngetich and Ebenyo line up at Lobo Village, determined to defend their crowns and write yet another chapter in their growing legacy.