Kenya can retain World Cross-Country Championship title(s)...

The national championships for the Cross Country usually serve as a measure of what to expect from the Kenyan team at the continental and even more important World Cross Country championships. Last year witnessed a return to winning ways for both individual and team honours after fighting off the Ethiopian - led by Kenenisa Bekele ( and to a smaller extent, Eritrean Zerseney Tedesse) challenges. Some may argue that the wins came about since the main threats had withdrawn which is still the case this year for Bekele.

2011 World Cross-Country Championships - Punta Umbria - Logo courtesy of www.iaaf.org

Well this year the selection seems to have gotten some well-tested legs for repeating the feat. From the senior men to junior women, the team to Punta Umbria -Spain looks quite formidable for the task ahead. The challenge as expected will come from the Ethiopians and lately Ugandans who seem to be catching up at least at individual level.
With Athletics Kenya easily being the most liquid of sports associations in the country, will have no excuses for letting any of these titles slip. The continental championships will most likely serve as a good curtain-raiser to help get the team into shape (though they don't need to show their hand fully to their opponents).
Teams:
Senior Men (12km)
1. Geoffrey Mutai
2. Matthew Kisorio
3. Vincent Kiprop

Senior Women (8km)
1. Linet Masai
2. Vivian Cheruiyot
3. Prisca Jepteling

Junior Men (8km)
1. Isaiah Koech
2. Justin Cheruiyot
3. Philemon Yator

Junior Women (6km)
1. Janet Kisia
2. Jepkorir Kipkoech
3. Faith Chepngetich

We shall be watching as the breeding grounds for future world beaters is unveiled in Spain. 20th March 2011, mark your calendars people!