ON YOUR MARK, GET SET! Stage ready for this year’s Kass Marathon in Eldoret today

Athletes participate during Kass Marathon men race which was also sponsored by The Standard Group in Eldoret yesterday. Albert Kemboi Korir won the race clocking 02;42.51. 15.11.2015. Pictures By Peter Ochieng.

Expectations of registering new records and making history in today’s Kass International Marathon in Eldoret are quite high.

After days of intense training, it is now time for athletes to prove their worth at the grueling race.

While at it, participants will take solace and breathe easy after last year’s champions, Albert Korir and Valarie Jemeli said they will not defend their men and women 42km titles.

When the athletes will be punishing their bodies along the hilly Kapsabet-Eldoret road, in a race that cuts across two counties, Nandi and Uasin Gishu, Korir will be cheering them on in the stands.

Thousands of miles away, Jemeli will be busy tackling Valencia marathon.

The race will begin in Kapsabet, Nandi County headquarters and then end at Eldoret Sport Club, Uasin Gishu County.

It will be an open race for all, since no athlete has ever defended the Kass Marathon title. No doubt fans will follow proceedings with bated breath, before coronation of this year’s winners.

After winning last year’s race, her first 42km marathon, Jemeli landed an invitation to the Barcelona Half marathon, which she won in 2:25.26, thrusting her to international limelight.

After tasting global glory, Jemeli is at it again, this time taking part in the Valencia Half marathon and promises to win the top prize.

“I know I have disappointed my fans by not taking part in the Kass Marathon, but I will make them proud by winning gold medal in Valencia. I have trained well and I am not going for anything less than victory,” she said. “I will always treasure Kass Marathon. I am here because of that race.”

As the Kass Marathon enters its 10th edition today, its unpredictability continues. No athlete has ever defended his or her title. It will be no different.

Agnes jepkosgey came close in 2014, having won the 2013 edition, but was stripped off her title after she failed a doping test. She was banned for two years.

Kass Media Group Chairman Julius Chepkwony said they have put in place plans to ensure a successful event.

“My group, together with other partners, have ensured the race will be a successful one. I urge fans to turn up in large numbers and support our children,” said Chepkwony.

Standard Group CEO Sam Shollei is among guests expected to flag off the event next to Kapsabet Boys High School.