Christine Njoki Nalimo is targeting a third consecutive Eldoret TechRun title.
Christine Njoki Nalimo aims to retain her crown on November 29 as organisers announce Sh1.4 million in prize money for the third edition.
Christine Njoki Nalimo will chase a third consecutive Eldoret TechRun title when the 10km race returns on November 29, 2026. The defending champion said she was ready for the contest after training in Iten.
Speaking at Tuesday’s launch, Nalimo said she expected strong competition in the women’s race. However, the former Durban 10km winner hopes her preparation and experience will help her retain the crown.
Nalimo won the inaugural race in 2024 and followed that success with another victory last year. She now heads into the third edition seeking to extend her unbeaten run at the event.
Eldoret TechRun offers Sh1.4 million prize purse
Nalimo said the increased prize money could draw more elite road runners and make this year’s contest tougher. Meanwhile, Eldo hub executive director Magdalene Chepkemoi announced Sh1.4 million in prize money for the third edition.
Chepkemoi said the event has attracted 3,500 participants since its launch in 2024. It has also paid athletes more than Sh2 million in prize money across the first two editions.
For Nalimo, those earnings have supported both her athletics career and her family. She said she had used her winnings to educate her siblings and help her parents.
She also highlighted the role of local races in developing future champions. Eldo hub, the run’s title sponsor, plans a technology and business forum on November 30.
Chepkemoi said the forum would bring sports innovators together to discuss how technology can improve sport. Participants will also explore ways to address challenges facing the sector.
Kipruto urges athletes to compete clean
Race ambassador and Chicago Marathon champion Amos Kipruto urged competitors to avoid doping as they pursue success. He said athletes should not jeopardise their careers while trying to improve their lives.
Kipruto also called for a joint effort against doping, including educating athletes about artificial intelligence’s role in that fight. He encouraged the current generation to embrace new ideas as the race combines athletics with technological innovation.
Beyond road racing, the world marathon bronze medallist challenged emerging athletes to restore Kenya’s standing in events such as the 3000m steeplechase. Kenya dominated the event for years before losing its grip.
Meanwhile, Uasin Gishu Athletics Kenya chairman Joseph Boit said fair competition must start at local races. He urged athletes to uphold zero tolerance for doping on race day.
Uasin Gishu sports executive Robert Kemei and trade executive Dr Philip Chebunet also attended the launch.
