Mary Moraa Among 6 Kenyans Shortlisted for Historic Ksh1.6 Billion Race Prize
Mary Moraa is among six Kenyans selected for the Kingston Slam in Jamaica, a groundbreaking competition scheduled for April 4-6, 2025. The event features a record prize pool of Ksh1.6 billion (USD 12.6 million) and will rank athletes based on points from two races. The overall winner will receive KSh12 million (USD 100,000).
Mary Moraa, a prominent 800-metre athlete from Kenya, is among six Kenyan competitors selected for a groundbreaking event in Jamaica. This inaugural competition is called the Kingston Slam, scheduled to occur from April 4 to April 6, 2025, at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica. This event promises lucrative rewards, featuring a substantial prize pool of Ksh1.6 billion (USD 12.6 million), the largest in athletic history.
The Jamaica Grand Slam will host 96 athletes, divided into 48 contracted ‘Racers’ and 48 ‘Challengers,’ who will earn points across various events. Unlike traditional races, rankings will be determined based on combined points from two races. For instance, Ms. Moraa’s ranking will derive from her performance in both the 800m and 1500m events.
The champion, with the highest overall points, will receive a grand prize of KSh12 million (USD 100,000). Alongside Ms. Moraa, Nelly Jepchirchir, another rising star in the 800m, will also compete in the 1500m. In the men’s category, Emmanuel Wanyonyi will represent Kenya as he aims to emulate his past successes in the men’s 800m.
Representing middle-distance events, Ronald Kwemoi will compete in the 3000m and 5000m categories, targeting a share of the significant prize money. Additionally, Agnes Ngetich and Hellen Ekalale will strive for supremacy in the women’s 3000m and 5000m categories.
The innovative Grand Slam format aims to disrupt conventional track meets by offering financial incentives and a novel competitive structure to enhance the excitement for fans. This competition is the brainchild of legendary American sprinter Michael Johnson, who initiated it to improve earnings for athletes.
In conclusion, Mary Moraa’s participation in the Kingston Slam represents a significant milestone in athletics, where athletes will compete for the largest prize pool in sports history. The unique format, emphasizing multi-event scoring, promises to create an engaging environment for both athletes and spectators alike. With esteemed competitors from Kenya and worldwide, this event is set to redefine competitive racing in the sport.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
