Richest marathon in Kenya

The inaugural Eldoret City Marathon due on Sunday in Eldoret has so far received Sh17.5 million in sponsorship and an entry of close to 500 athletes.

Stanbic Bank is the latest company to sponsor the race to a tune of Sh2.5 million, joining title sponsors Uasin Gishu County government, that has donated Sh10 million and Kenya Pipeline Sh5 million.

Roseline Kosgei, the Uasin Gishu County chief officer for education, culture and social services, disclosed that they require Sh25 million to host what will become the richest marathon in the country.

Kosgei was speaking before receiving the sponsorship cheque from Stanbic Bank chief executive officer Charles Mudiwa at the bank’s headquarters in Nairobi on Wednesday.

Kosgei was accompanied by legendary former internationals Catherine Ndereba, Douglas Wakiihuri and William Tanui.

“We are appealing for more sponsorship to make the race a major success,” said Kosgei, adding that entry fee for the race is Sh 1,200m with the deadline for registration Friday midnight.

Kosgei disclosed that they will spend Sh12.5 million on prize money and appealed to well-wisher and sponsors to join them in the noble venture that seeks to benefit upcoming athletes, who rarely get to participate in major races outside the country.

The event that has the 1995 World Half Marathon and 1991 World 10,000m champion,  Moses Tanui as the race director will see each winner in the men and women’s full marathon pocket Sh3 million.

First runners-up will get Sh1.5 million and second runners-up Sh1 million. the top 10 finishers will walk away with prize money.

“We are the county and home of champions hence this race has been started to nurture talent,” said Kosgei. “We hope to have this event annually with an increased prize package.”

Kosgei noted that the county’s economy is driven by athletes hence the race gives an opportunity to upcoming athletes.