Farouk Kibet and other organizers of the Chepsaita marathon at Chepkemel grounds.
By Timothy Wekesa.
CHEPKEMEL, Uasin Gishu County .
The Chepsaita Cross Country Marathon, scheduled for Dec. 7, 2024, aims to empower more than 1,000 students with KSH 10 million in scholarships, organizers announced on Thursday.
Dubbed “Run for Education,” the second edition of the annual event will support needy students from 10 schools across the region, providing KSH 10,000 in scholarships per student.
Speaking during a press briefing at Chepkemel Grounds, marathon patron Farouk Kibet said the initiative seeks to transform lives through education.
Kibet, who is also President William Ruto’s personal assistant, highlighted the financial struggles faced by many families.
“Because of this race, more than 1,000 students will receive scholarships paid directly to their schools,” Kibet said.
“Our mission is to ensure that no child stays out of school because of fees, and no parent bears the indignity of having their child at home when they should be learning.”
Kibet called on corporate sponsors, athletes, and the local community to rally behind the cause, adding that the marathon represents an opportunity for both individual and collective success.
“When we come together to run for education, we achieve not just individual goals but also communal prosperity,” he said.
President Ruto,executive members of his cabinet,Governors,Senators,MPs, and other dignitaries will grace the Occasion.
President William Ruto is expected to officiate the event, underscoring his administration’s commitment to education and youth empowerment and talent growth.
The president will preside over the official launch and award ceremony, where scholarships will be presented to the selected students.
In addition to President Ruto, several government officials, corporate leaders, and local leaders will attend.
Among the expected dignitaries are Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii, and Athletics Kenya President Jackson Tuwei.
“This marathon reflects the values of hard work, resilience, and community spirit that our government continues to promote,” Ruto said in a statement.
“I am proud to join this noble cause, which aligns with our vision for a better Kenya.”
Champion Athletes Support the Marathon.
Elite athletes Eliud Kipchoge, Faith Kipyegon, Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Geoffrey Kamworor, and Beatrice Chebet have joined hands to support the marathon’s mission of education and empowerment.
Eliud Kipchoge: A two-time Olympic gold medalist and the first man to run a sub-two-hour marathon.
Kipchoge is widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner of all time.
“Education, like running, is a powerful tool for change,” Kipchoge said.
“By supporting this marathon, we are not just creating champions on the track but also leaders in our communities.”
Faith Kipyegon: The reigning Olympic and world champion in the 1,500m and 5,000m, Kipyegon has inspired many with her record-breaking performances.
A passionate advocate for youth development, she emphasized the importance of balancing education and sports.
“Through education, we empower the next generation to dream big and achieve greatness,” Kipyegon said.
“I am honored to support this initiative, which is giving hope to so many children.”
Emmanuel Wanyonyi: The world 800m champion and rising star in middle-distance running.
Wanyonyi is known for his meteoric rise and remarkable resilience.
Coming from a humble background, Wanyonyi credits education and athletics for transforming his life.
“I know what it means to struggle to achieve an education,” Wanyonyi said.
“This marathon is about giving others the opportunities I was fortunate to have. It’s an honor to support such a worthy cause.”
Geoffrey Kamworor: A three-time world half-marathon champion and 2019 New York City Marathon winner, Kamworor praised the marathon’s focus on community development.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without support from my community,” Kamworor said. “This marathon is a chance to give back and inspire the next generation.”
Beatrice Chebet: The reigning world 5,000m champion.
Chebet is celebrated for her exceptional performances and advocacy for education.
“Supporting education goes hand-in-hand with athletic development,” Chebet said.
“When young people are educated, they can fully realize their potential on and off the track.”she added.
More Than a Race.
In addition to the scholarships, this year’s event will feature a free medical camp offering dental checkups, cancer screening, family planning services and reproductive health consultations.
Organizers said the marathon is part of a broader effort to address community challenges and improve the quality of life in Uasin Gishu County.
Event Details:
Date: Dec. 7, 2024
Time: Activities begin at 6 a.m., with the marathon kicking off at 7:30 a.m.
Venue: Chepkemel Grounds, Chepsaita
Categories:
Full Marathon (42 km)
Half Marathon (21 km)
10 km Race
Corporate Charity Walk (5 km)
Registration Fees:
Full Marathon: KSH 1,500
Half Marathon: KSH 1,000
10 km Race: KSH 500
Corporate Charity Walk: KSH 5,000 per team (up to 10 participants)
Registration Deadline: Nov. 30, 2024. Late registrations will not be accepted.
How to Register:
Online: Visit the official Chepsaita Marathon website.
In-person: Registration centers are available in Eldoret, Iten, and Kapsabet.
Building on Past Success.
The inaugural Chepsaita Marathon in 2023 raised KSH 70 million, which was used to build infrastructure in local schools.
This year’s event shifts its focus to scholarships, underscoring the marathon’s evolving mission to create lasting impact.
“Every step we run is a step closer to securing a brighter future for our children,” Kibet said.
For more information or to participate, visit the official Chepsaita Marathon website or contact the organizing committee.
Ends.
