It is typically held in February in Nairobi, the country's capital, and entrants are almost exclusively from Kenya.
[4] The event attracts a very high standard of athletes, reflecting Kenya's strength long-distance running.
The growth of the championships in the 1980s coincided with the country's increasing prowess in the cross country discipline, which has seen it win all but four of the men's team world titles since 1986 and numerous women's team titles since 1990.
[5] Paul Tergat is the most successful athlete of the championships, having won the men's race on four occasions.
Jane Ngotho is the most successful woman, courtesy of her three straight victories from 1988 to 1990.