The Absa Kip Keino Classic, now in its fifth year, dazzled fans at the Nyayo National Stadium with a spectacular display of athletic prowess. World champion Mary Moraa emerged as a highlight of the event, sponsored by Absa Bank Kenya and part of the World Athletics Continental Tour.
Moraa, radiant with victory, set a new meeting record at the Classic, successfully defending her title in the two-lap race. She crossed the finish line in 1:57.96, completing a remarkable trio of Kip Keino Classic victories at Nyayo.
This achievement surpassed her previous best at the championship, a time of 1:58.83, set at last year’s event at Kasarani’s Moi International Sports Centre.
The Classic serves as a stepping stone for Moraa as she prepares for her debut at the Doha Diamond League on May 10 and looks forward to the Prefontaine Classic Diamond League on May 25, all part of her journey towards the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Winning the 800m race at Nyayo National Stadium, Moraa not only set a new meet record but also delighted her home crowd with her signature post-race dance.
“Although I didn’t achieve a new personal best, winning here, in front of my home audience, fills me with joy. My coach and I will now strategize to reach that goal in future events,” Moraa expressed.
Despite not reaching her ambitious target of 1:56, Moraa’s victory has set the stage for a promising season. Her main rival, Vivian Kiprotich, took silver with a time of 1:58.93, while Nelly Chirchir earned bronze with 1:58.98.
Moraa’s first 800m race of the season at Nyayo, following her 400m victory at the All African Games in Accra, Ghana, last month, has certainly set a high bar for the competitions to come.
