Kip Keino Classic Colour: Electrifying experience at Kasarani

President Uhuru Kenyatta embraces Sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala as Sports CS Amb. Amina Mohamed looks on during The Kip Keino Classic-World Athletics Continental Tour 2021 at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi on September18, 2021. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

The second edition of Kip Keino Classic Meet arguably lived up to its billing.

From the scintillating theme colours to neon lights, food, drinks, music and the camaraderie, Kenya's hallowed sports cathedral hosted World Athletics' gold label event.

Even though fans were advised to use the available technology to keep abreast with the championship wherever they were, a few defiant ones found themselves at Kasarani where they cheered feverishly their favourite athletes.

"I think spectators could have been allowed to fill the stadium, this could have spiced up to the occasion the more," noted athletic die-hard lover Angwenyi Gichana.

Faith Kipyegon, the 1500m Olympic Champion accompanied by her daughter Alyn during The Kip Keino Classic-World Athletics Continental Tour 2021 Media Interviews at Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi on September17, 2021. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Gichana had travelled all the way from Kisumu to have a glimpse of the spectacle.

During field events, a section of them were mesmerised by the miniature cars used to carry javelin sticks and the hammers.

Africa Drum entertainers during Absa Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour at Moi International Sports Center, Saturday Sept 18, 2021. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Some of the fans present were torn between following the championship live on track and field or on the two giant screens placed on either side of the stadium.

Drummers positioned at the first bend spiced up the occasion with African musical sounds.

Sponsors, too, were not left behind as they fought for space to ensure their brands were conspicuous, relayed and beamed across the globe.

For music lovers, the disc jockey did not disappoint.

From the choicest techno to rock and topical songs that augur well with the occasion made the occasion worthwhile.

A battery of journalists jostled for space to interview the winners, with some awed by the presence of world beaters like former Olympics 100m champion Justin Gatlin.

Those accredited for the event had the privilege to sample sumptuous meals offered by the high profile catering companies contracted at the venue.

Some of the mouthwatering delicacies included nyama choma, beef stew, chicken fry, blended coffee among others.

It is worth noting that it took an arm and a leg to enter the stadium.

This is because of the tough Covid - 19 measures put in place by the Sports Ministry and the Ministry of Health.

Everyone was tested, including yours truly, before they were allowed into the games cathedral.