Africa-Press – Kenya. Two-time World Cross Country mixed relay champion Daniel Munguti is bracing for a fast 1,500m duel at the seventh edition of the Kip Keino Classic, set for April 24 under the floodlights of Nyayo Stadium.
Munguti has confirmed his return to the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting, marking his second appearance at the iconic Nairobi showpiece after missing last year’s edition through injury.
“I will be running at Kip Keino this year. Last year, I missed it because I had an injury, but this time, I am really looking forward to it,” he said.
The middle-distance ace made his debut at the meet in 2024, delivering a solid podium finish after clocking 3:33.71 for third place. That race was won by Reynold Cheruiyot in a swift 3:31.96, with Brian Komen sealing second in 3:32.29.
Now fully fit and raring to go, Munguti returns with renewed belief and sharper intent, eager to stamp his authority in what is shaping up to be a blistering contest.
However, the middle distance ace remains cautious, predicting a stacked field and a relentless pace that could make this year’s 1,500m one of the most competitive in the event’s history.
“This year, I think we will see very fast times. With the hype around this edition, I believe we will have very strong athletes on the start line,” Munguti noted.
A key ingredient in the anticipated fast times will be the introduction of WaveLight technology, making its debut on Kenyan soil and adding a new dimension to pacing.
“This year will also feature the WaveLight technology that we usually see in Diamond League meetings. That tells you the organisers are targeting very fast times,” he added. “The 1,500m could be one of the most competitive races yet.
”Race organisers had earlier confirmed the adoption of the digital pacing system for the meet, which will run from 4 pm to 9 pm beneath the Nyayo floodlights.
“We want to try WaveLight this time because it helps produce fast times and gives athletes a clear target to follow,” explained meet director Barnaba Korir.
“If we are targeting specific times, the system allows athletes to track the pace with precision and hit those marks.
”Synonymous with elite Diamond League circuits, the WaveLight system uses LED lights along the inside rail of the track, flashing at pre-set speeds to guide athletes toward target times, be it world records or personal bests, while also elevating the spectator experience.
Despite the looming intensity, Munguti is undeterred. “I have to go in with a solid race plan because I know it will be fast. My target is also to run a quick time. There will be big names, but that does not scare me,” he said.
The rising star has already signalled his early-season form, finishing second in the 2km at the Sirikwa Classic in 5:53, just a second behind Reynold Cheruiyot’s 5:52.
Based in the high-altitude training hub of Iten, Munguti says his preparations have been finely tuned, with a sharp focus on speed work, endurance, and strength conditioning.
“Training has been going well. I have been sharpening my speed, building mileage, and putting in gym work,” he revealed.
