The 45th edition of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Cross Country Championship was held on October 3, 2025, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi. The event was presided over by the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri. This highly anticipated event brought together 19 teams drawn from various KDF Brigades, Formations, Units, and Bases, showcasing the country’s top athletic talent. The participants competed in the 10km Men’s and Women’s race as well as Mixed relay that serves a platform to promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and camaraderie among KDF personnel.
For the Men’s 10km race, Private Duncan Waweru representing Lanet team, beat all odds, emerged victorious with a time of 29:25.3 minutes, edging out his team mate from Lanet, Lance Corporal Moses Kirimi by a norrow margin, who secured second place with a time of 29:29.0 minutes. Gunner Charles Katul Kakuri from Embakasi team rounded out the podium, finishing third with a time of 29:31.3 minutes.
In the women’s 10km race, Snr Private Daisilah Jerono from Moi Air Base claimed the top spot with a time of 33:04.3 minutes, narrowly beating Snr Private Glorious Jepkirui representing Kenya Navy Mtongwe Base, who finished second with a time of 33:04.7 minutes, just 0.4 seconds behind. Snr Private Gladys Koech also from Mtongwe team secured third place with a time of 33:13.3 minutes showcasing impressive endurance and skill.
For the action-packed 4 by 2 (2 kilometers) mixed relay (Universal race), Isiolo team emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional teamwork and speed. Moi Air Base team secured second position, closely followed by Thika team, who took third place, demonstrating impressive relay skills.
After all the thrilling competition in the various races, the overall standings revealed a clear winner. Lanet team triumphed and crowned the champions, showcasing their dominance across the events. Embakasi team secured the second position, earning them the title of 1st runners-up while Kahawa team rounded out the podium, claiming the third spot in the overall standings.
In his address, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, expressed gratification for the athletes’ remarkable performances at the Championship. He congratulated the winning teams and their trainers, emphasizing the importance of fair play, respect, and integrity in sports. He highlighted that the championship’s core objectives are to foster esprit de corps, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle, all critical to mission readiness. The CDF’s appreciation for the athletes’ dedication and teamwork underscores the significance of sports in promoting unit cohesion and excellence within the KDF.
“I commend all participants for showcasing exceptional athleticism, teamwork, and dedication during this 45th edition Championship. Your commitment to fair play and unwavering sportsmanship has been truly inspiring. I’m delighted to see our athletes pushing themselves to excellence while upholding the values of integrity and camaraderie and wish the selected team all the best at the national and international level.” He noted.
The KDF Sports Control Board Chairperson and Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics Major General Edward Rugendo, commended all the participants in the Championship who showcased exceptional athletic talent, with top performers set to represent the country at the national level.
“Congratulations to all athletes who participated and excelled in the event. That was exemplary. I also extend my sincere appreciation to the Defence Forces leadership and Cooperative Bank of Kenya for their support. The board pledges to continue investing in athlete development, coaching and officiating to ensure excellence in sports,” Maj Gen Rugendo added.
This year’s edition came to a close, with top athletes selected to represent the KDF at the upcoming National Cross Country Championship on 15th October at Eldoret Golf Club, showcasing their skills and dedication on the national stage. With their sights set on excellence, the KDF team is poised to make a strong impression and bring honor to the Defence Forces.
Other notable guests present were the Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lieutenant General John Omenda, Service Commanders, Athletic Kenya President Lt General (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei, Senior Officers, Cooperative Bank of Kenya Officials, KDF Athletic and Athletic Kenya officials among other invited guests.
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