Team Kenya is brimming with confidence as final preparations intensify ahead of the World Cross Country Championships set for January 10 in Tallahassee, Florida.
Team manager Paul Tuitoek says the country’s 35-member squad is physically and mentally ready to take on the world, insisting the athletes are in peak condition as they enter the final phase of their build-up.
Speaking in Nairobi, where the team has pitched camp at the Windsor Hotel ahead of their departure to the United States, Tuitoek expressed optimism that Kenya will once again assert its dominance on the global cross country stage.
“The preparations have gone on very well and the athletes are in good shape,” Tuitoek said. “There is a lot of confidence within the team, and the mood is very positive.”
Before moving to Nairobi, the squad underwent an intensive residential training programme at St Mark’s Teachers College in Kigari, a high-altitude base renowned for producing elite distance runners. The camp focused on sharpening endurance, speed and tactical awareness ahead of the demanding Tallahassee course.
Tuitoek credited the technical bench led by veteran coach Julius Kirwa for the team’s readiness, noting that the coaches have worked closely together to ensure every detail is covered.
“Coach Julius Kirwa and the entire technical team have done a commendable job. Training sessions have been well structured to ensure the athletes are ready to compete at the highest level,” he said.
Although preparations are nearing completion, Tuitoek revealed that fine-tuning is still ongoing to ensure the athletes hit top form on race day.
“We are still polishing a few areas to make sure everyone is fully ready when the championships begin. Our expectation is to post strong performances across the board,” he added.
The team is scheduled to depart for the United States in two groups, beginning Monday and concluding on Tuesday. Tuitoek confirmed that all logistical arrangements, including travel documentation, have been successfully handled.
“Visa processing went smoothly, and we appreciate the cooperation from the US Embassy. Everything is in place for the team to travel,” he noted.
Tuitoek also acknowledged the support provided by Athletics Kenya and the government, terming it vital to the team’s smooth preparation.
“We are grateful to Athletics Kenya for the guidance and coordination, and to the government for its continued support of our athletes,” he said.
He further thanked the Windsor Hotel for hosting the team during the Nairobi camp, saying the partnership had contributed positively to the final phase of preparations.
Sending a message to Kenyan fans, Tuitoek assured them that the athletes are fully committed to defending the country’s overall title.
“Our athletes understand what is at stake. They are motivated, focused and ready to give their all for the Kenyan flag in Florida,” he said.
