Reprieve for Athletes as Iten-Based Stadium Uplift Kicks Off

A collage image of construction works going on at the Iten-based Kamariny Stadium on February 6, 2023.
A collage image of construction works going on at the Iten-based Kamariny Stadium on February 6, 2023.
PHOTO:
Courtesy
The Great County of Elgeiyo Marakwet

Iten-based athletes have received a sigh of relief after the uplift of the historic Kamariny Stadium kicked off on Monday, February 6, 2023. 

The stadium was in a poor condition, forcing runners to spend a lot of money going for training sessions at the Kipchoge Stadium in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.

The dust, which is usually found in the locality during the dry periods, especially in the months of January and February, was also a concern for most athletes, forcing them to look for other venues to avoid contracting diseases.

Also Read: 4 Kenyan Training Camps that Have Produced Most Star Athletes

According to the Elgeyo/Marakwet government, the levelling, grading, and watering of the training ground have already begun.

Elgeyo/Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich promised that going forward, maintenance works would be carried out on the facility on a regular basis. 

"As we wait for the national Government to complete Kamariny Stadium to which we have received a commitment, our athletes can now return and train at the Kamariny track. 

“The Governor promised that routine maintenance of the field will continue. More than 2,000 athletes used to train at the stadium. 

“Some of the world records broken by local and foreign athletes are traced to this great stadium,” read part of the statement from the County communication department.

Although a tartan track would not be installed at the famous stadium, its standards have been greatly improved. 

During the launch of the Jubilee Manifesto in 2017, the current President William Ruto, promised that the construction of the stadium would be completed in six months' time. 

However, since then nothing meaningful has been done. 

Most runners, particularly those who represent Kenya in track and field events usually train at the facility.

Even star marathon runners, including the likes of Ednah Kiplagat, used the stadium to enhance their speed work.

Also Read: Why Iten Produces Kenya’s Most Successful Athletes