Mary Moraa is among six Kenyans competing in the inaugural Kingston Slam in Jamaica, offering the largest prize pool in athletics history. Scheduled for April 4-6, 2025, athletes will earn points across two events. The champion will win KSh12 million (USD 100,000). This innovative format, established by Michael Johnson, aims to enhance athlete earnings and fan engagement.
Mary Moraa, a prominent figure in Kenyan athletics, is among six Kenyan athletes participating in the inaugural Kingston Slam, scheduled for April 4 to April 6, 2025, at Kingston’s National Stadium in Jamaica. This unique competition offers a chance to win a portion of the Ksh1.6 billion (USD 12.6 million) prize pool, the largest ever in an athletic event.
The Kingston Slam will feature 96 competitors, split between 48 contracted ‘Racers’ and 48 ‘Challengers,’ who will accumulate points in their respective disciplines. Unlike traditional races, participants will be ranked based on their overall performance across two events. For instance, Mary Moraa will be scored based on her results in both the 800m and 1500m races.
The athlete accumulating the highest combined points from these events will emerge as the Grand Slam champion, winning KSh12 million (USD 100,000). Alongside Moraa, Nelly Jepchirchir will represent Kenya in both the 800m and 1500m competitions, while Emmanuel Wanyonyi will aim to shine in the men’s 800m.
Additionally, Kenya’s representatives in the middle-distance races include Ronald Kwemoi, who will compete in the 3000m and 5000m events for a chance at the cash prize. Other athletes, Agnes Ngetich and Hellen Ekalale, will also contend in the women’s categories of the 3000m and 5000m.
The Grand Slam format introduces a competitive structure that emphasizes not just financial incentives but also an engaging experience for athletes and fans alike. This initiative was established by the renowned American sprinter, Michael Johnson, to enhance financial rewards for athletes in the sport.
The upcoming Kingston Slam represents a groundbreaking departure from traditional athletics, offering substantial financial rewards and an innovative competitive structure. Featuring notable Kenyan athletes, including Mary Moraa, the event is poised to redefine the dynamics of competitive racing and attract greater fan engagement. The introduction of this format by Michael Johnson signals a pivotal moment in athletics, promising to reshape the future of the sport.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
