Six Kenyan Athletes in Contention for Landmark Ksh1.6 Billion Prize Race
Mary Moraa, a top Kenyan 800-meter runner, is one of six Kenyan athletes scheduled to compete in a new and unique competition in Jamaica. This event offers a huge prize.
Moraa, known for her success in 800-meter races, is perhaps the most famous Kenyan athlete participating in the inaugural Kingston Slam. This event will take place from April 4 to April 6, 2025, at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica.
Six Kenyans, along with many other athletes from different sports, will compete for a share of the Ksh1.6 billion (USD 12.6 million) prize. This is the largest prize ever given out in an athletic event.
Unlike other well-known races, the Jamaica Grand Slam will have 96 athletes. There will be 48 contracted “Racers” and 48 “Challengers.” They will earn points in their specific events.
The main difference between the Grand Slam and events like the Olympics is how athletes are ranked. In this event, athletes will be ranked based on their combined points from two races. For example, Moraa will be ranked by her performance in both the 800-meter and 1500-meter races.
The athlete with the most combined points after both events will be the Grand Slam champion. They will receive the top prize of KSh12 million (USD 100,000).
Besides Moraa, Nelly Jepchirchir, a rising 800-meter star, will also represent Kenya. She will also compete in the 1500-meter race, as required by the Grand Slam rules.
In the men’s events, Emmanuel Wanyonyi will represent Kenya. He hopes to repeat his success in the men’s 800 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
In the middle-distance races, specifically the 3000-meter and 5000-meter events, Kenya will also be represented. Ronald Kwemoi, known for his strong performances in 1500-meter and 5000-meter races, will compete for the KSh 12 million prize.
Agnes Ngetich and Hellen Ekalale will compete in the women’s 3000-meter and 5000-meter events, aiming for top honors.
This new Grand Slam format aims to change traditional track meets. It offers athletes not only large financial rewards but also a new competitive structure to make races more exciting for fans.
This Grand Slam Track League was created by legendary American sprinter Michael Johnson. He developed this competition to provide better pay for athletes.
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Six Kenyan Athletes in Contention for Landmark Ksh1.6 Billion Prize Race
