Nike Discovery Kenya Cross Country returns to Eldoret

35th edition of the Nike Discovery Kenya Cross Country returns to Eldoret Sports Club on January 25, 2026, promising another thrilling showcase of raw talent as children, juniors, Under-20s and senior athletes line up on one of the country’s most iconic courses.

Renowned as a breeding ground for future champions, the Discovery Cross Country has, over the years, established itself as a vital pillar in Kenya’s athletics development pathway. This year’s edition is expected to attract a strong turnout across all categories, continuing a tradition that has shaped generations of elite runners.

The programme caters for young athletes as early as five years old, with races ranging from 500m for ages 5–7, 1km for 8–10, and 2km for 11–13, for both boys and girls. The elite fields will contest the 6km Under-20 women’s race, 8km Under-20 men, 8km senior women and the demanding 10km senior men’s event.

Race Director David Letting says preparations are in top gear, underlining the event’s unmatched role in identifying and nurturing young talent.

“Almost three-quarters of the Team Kenya athletes who competed at last year’s World Championships in Tallahassee, Florida, participated at the Discovery Cross Country last season,” said Letting.

“We are proud that this race has truly been a ‘nursery’ — a feeder for talent development. It is designed to discover young athletes, and it continues to live up to its name.”

Letting further described the event as a perfect fit in the Athletics Kenya calendar, especially as athletes begin laying the foundation for the track season.

“Cross country is crucial in the build-up to the track season, especially with major events like the Diamond League circuit and the Commonwealth Games coming up this year,” he added.

He has urged athletes to register in large numbers through the official link circulated across Athletics Kenya social media platforms, noting the race’s rich legacy.

“This race is a source of inspiration. Nearly all the champions we celebrate today ran Discovery Cross Country,” said Letting.

“Multiple world record holders Beatrice Chebet and Faith Kipyegon are part of this story, alongside legends like Eliud Kipchoge, Bedan Karoki, Vivian Cheruiyot and Irene Cheptai and many others.”

The event was founded by Gabriele Rosa of Rosa & Associates.