Brian Onyari Tinega delivered a breakout performance at the ABSA Kip Keino Classic, claiming a decisive victory in the men’s 400 meters. The young Kenyan sprinter stunned the crowd and his rivals by taking control early and maintaining his lead to the finish line at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Brian Tinega, born November 24, 2002, outpaced a field of experienced competitors, signalling his arrival as a rising star in Kenyan sprinting. His unexpected win disrupted the anticipated order and highlighted the emergence of fresh talent in a country traditionally known for middle- and long-distance dominance.
Veteran Kevin Kipkorir, born in 1994, finished second, while Kelvin Kiprotich Tonui, born in 1997, took third place. Both athletes pushed hard but could not match Tinega’s pace on the day, resulting in a clean Kenyan sweep of the podium.
Other notable participants included Allan Kipyego, David Sanayek Kapirante, Boniface Ontuga Mweresa, George Mutuku Mutinda, and Erastus Mbaluka, who all posted competitive times, further demonstrating the depth of Kenyan sprinting talent.
The ABSA Kip Keino Classic continues to serve as a critical platform for emerging athletes to showcase their abilities. Tinega’s victory not only thrilled fans but also signalled a shift in Kenya’s sprinting landscape, which has traditionally been overshadowed by its success in longer distances.
As the athletics season unfolds, attention will turn to Tinega’s next races to see if he can build on this momentum and establish himself on the international stage. For now, his stunning upset at the ABSA Kip Keino Classic marks a significant milestone in his promising career.
