By Peter Ochieng’

Athletes have stepped up training at Chepkoilel University College in Eldoret ahead of the National Championships.

They were on Tuesday putting final touches on their training to start their journey to Nairobi for the Nationals this weekend and Olympic Games trials next week.

The North Rift region is reputed for the production of most world beaters in athletics.

Coaches were on Tuesday busy giving instructions to both athletes.

The cold and sunny weather in the region has also given the athletes a conducive atmosphere for training.

Most athletes appeared to be in an upbeat mood despite the strong challenges and competition from the ever increasing numbers of athletes.

“I am glad that I will do it for Kenyans. The training is good and we will make the country proud during the competition,” two times marathon world champion Abel Kirui said.

Kirui was among international stars who are training at Chepkoilel University College. They concluded the training session on Tuesday.

Kirui added: “The two days practice has improved our speed and I appeal to my colleagues to work extra hard so that we don’t let our country down”.

He also congratulated Athletics Kenya officials for giving him a chance to represent Kenya in the Olympic Games.

“I really thank the officials and I want to assure them that this time round things will be different,” he said.

When asked about the challenge posed by neighbours in Ethiopia, he replied: “For sure, the Ethiopians are strong and good in finishing. We can’t underrate them but for me, I am in good shape”.

Kirui, at the same time, sent his condolences to the Government and the families of two Ministers who lost their lives in the Sunday helicopter tragedy.

He said the country has lost prominent and dedicated leaders from whom they expected to get support when taking part in Olympic Games later in the year.

Senior and upcoming athletes were among those taking part in the training including reigning Berlin Marathon champion Florence Kiplagat, Olympic bronze medallist Eliud Kipchoge, Sally Chebiegon and Sally Kibiego.

Kiplagat was on Tuesday named in the standby team for the marathon.

“I want to put up my speed in the track events and later in marathon if necessary, but for now I am aiming the 10,000m,” she said.

The athletes are expected to leave Eldoret on Wednesday to begin their journey to Nairobi.