Confident Kamworor out to retain National XC title

Reigning World Cross Country Champion Geoffrey Kamworor is confident of retaining the national cross country title when the championships go down on Saturday at the Eldoret Sports Club.

Kamworor who reigned supreme at the Police Championships will be in line to defend his title in the championships that will also double up as the trials to select team Kenya for 43rd edition of IAAF World Cross Country championships slated for Aarhus, Denmark in March 30.

“I have trained well and with only a day to the championships I can actually say that I am ready. So far I am in good condition and my focus right now is on Saturday’s race,” Kamworor told Citizen Digital.

Kamworor has won two back to back World titles in 2015 and 2017 in the senior race and is hoping to once again make the cut to represent Kenya in Denmark.

“Being the defending champion I am hopeful I can earn make to the team so that I can defend my title. However, right now I am only focused on Saturday then I will think of the World Cross,” said Kamworor.

The three-time World Half Marathon champion will also represent the National Police Service which currently holds both the men and women titles and he is also certain that they will defend both titles.

“We have prepared well as the Police team because we know that other teams are ready to take away the titles. Although it is not going to be easy we will do everything to retain both titles, “said Kamworor.

This year’s championship will be unique in that it is the first time it is being held outside Nairobi and also being held in the afternoon hours unlike in the previous editions.

With the championship being held at his backyard, Kamworor is anticipating large crowds to throng the Eldoret Sports Club although he is unconcerned about the change in timing.

“It is actually a good thing that the completion has been brought home for the fans to come and motivate the athletes. This time we will be competing in the afternoon but that will have no effect because when you have prepared you can compete at any time,” observed Kamworor.