Kip Keino Classic 2026: Omanyala, Gabby Thomas and Sprint Stars Ready for Nairobi Showdown

Nairobi is about to host one of the fastest fields on the African athletics calendar.

The sixth edition of the Kip Keino Classic runs April 24-25 at a refurbished Nyayo National Stadium, under lights, with the action wrapping up between 8-9 PM. The night schedule is a deliberate choice — cooler conditions, faster times, a European major feel right in the heart of Kenya.

Ferdinand Omanyala will be Kenya’s flag-bearer on the track, going up against Canada’s Aaron Brown, American Brandon Hicklin, and South Africa’s Gift Leotlela in the men’s sprint. The women’s headline act is Gabby Thomas — triple Olympic champion from the USA.

The stadium now features Wavelight technology to help athletes chase records. And with Kenya gunning for the 2029 World Athletics Championships, every showcase like this matters.