WHILE the world is waiting to groom grown ups as athletes, Iten in North Rift in Kenya is busy grooming children to be the future road and track champions, thanks to the Shoe4Africa.

At the eighth edition of the Shoe4Africa women's race in Iten held over the weekend, over 1000 women and children graced the event which saw most of them walk home with a a pair of training shoes, a gift from the Shoe4Africa.

The race founder and also director at the New York City marathon Toby Tenser said the shoes are meant to motivate the young runners to take up their training seriously.

"This is our eighth edition and I can tell you that many champions have been made through this race," Toby said while adding that many who have participated in the race and got shoes have become world champions.

Sylvia Kibet, Lornah Kiplagat, and Edna Kiplagat have all run this race befor going on to conquer fame and stardom.

"It is a race that has launched many stars because there is no entry fee and prize money encourages up and comers to try their luck," Tenser added.

With Silvia Kibet, Janet Jepkosgei, Violah Kibiwott and Sally Kipyego gracing the event, it was a memorable time for the young athletes.

"I want to be a champion in future and become like Janet Jepkosgei," Naomi Jebichii, a six-year-old girl who ran the race said.