This archive report was first published on 29 September 2019.
The proposed Keringet Athletic training camp in Nakuru County is in dire need of attention, with the current state of the facility posing a significant threat to the region's budding athletics talent.
Located at an altitude of over 3,000 feet, Keringet is home to several world-class athletes, including reigning world marathon champion Geoffrey Kirui and Olympic champion Faith Chepng'etich.
However, the 20-acre facility is in a deplorable state, with a poor running track and inadequate infrastructure, forcing athletes to train on hazardous roads and risking injuries.
Geoffrey Kirui, who will be defending his World Marathon title in Doha on October 6, has spoken out about the neglect of the facility, stating that he has been forced to train on the tarmac, competing for space with smoking vehicles and putting his life in danger.
"I have injured my tendon while training on the tarmac simply because the county government has taken long to construct the field to international standards and I hope this time around they will be serious and allocate money," Kirui said.
The county government has allocated Sh50 million for the construction of the complex, but the project has been delayed, with the field being reduced to a grazing field and lacking basic amenities such as water, shades, and toilets.
Resident Ezekiel Terer has called on the county government to show its commitment to the project by providing temporary toilets for athletes training at the grounds.
With the region regarded as the granary of upcoming youth and junior champions, the neglect of the Keringet stadium is a significant concern, with many talents going to waste due to the lack of facilities.
