The athletes drawn from various countries were treated to breathtaking views of Kenya’s iconic wildlife at the Nairobi National Park in what is part of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) broader initiative to leverage sporting events for destination promotion and establish Kenya as a premier sports tourism destination.
“The Nairobi National Park’s juxtaposition with the city’s skyline and giraffes is unlike anything I have seen before,” said Thomas Röhler, Olympic champion in the javelin from Germany, who was participating in his second Kip Keino Classic.
Simon Verherstraeten, a Belgian sprinter making his debut at the event, expressed his surprise at the difference between Kenyan sporting events and those in his home country.
“It’s a big difference with Belgium meetings, which are a bit smaller and less enthusiastic, also less public. It is really nice to be here and to feel the warmth of the people and also the interest in athletics.” Said Verherstraeten
The excursion forms part of the continued strategy by KTB, banking on high-profile sporting events that attract international athletes and media coverage to showcase Kenya’s tourism potential to global audiences.
Norwegian athlete Amalie Luel, who won the 400m hurdles, setting a meeting record, highlighted the cultural aspects that make Kenya unique.
“Kenya and Nairobi are just so full of culture, and you can tell that the people here are so proud of their country, and they want to show off all the things that they have to offer, such as the beautiful wildlife.” Amalie noted
The sixth edition of the Absa Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour took place on May 31, 2025, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, Kenya.
“The reach of sporting events has become a very powerful marketing currency, and any destination looking to stay competitive must grasp the essence of that audience,” said KTB CEO June Chepkemei.
The Kenyan meet was the 6th round of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold Series events brought together 189 athletes from different nationalities.
Two meeting records were shattered with the other two world leads in this year’s event, which was held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex for the 1st time.
Dismas Otuke
