Iten Safaricom 10km Run set for this weekend

Wilson Kipsang Wilson Kipsang of Kenya crosses the line to win the men's race in the 2014 London Marathon on The Mall in central London on April 13, 2014.

The stage is set for the fourth edition of the Safaricom Iten 10km race set for this weekend in Elgeyo-Marakwet County.

The road race, sponsored by the mobile telephone provider is one amongst other events it sponsors, including the inaugural Deaf Athletics Marathon, Henry Wanyoike Hope for the future run, and the Commonwealth Games trials, which was held at Nyayo National Stadium.

Defending champions Alice Timbili and Kiplimo Mitei are among hundreds of athletes expected to take part in the race under prevailing chilly weather in the region.

Last year, the race attracted about 400 participants from Iten and the larger Rift Valley region and this year, organisers expect the number to rise to over 600.

“This year we have seen registration kick off earlier and there are many athletes who have shown interest.

Over the last one week, we have seen athletes already training in preparation for the run,” said Pius Rono, Elgeyo Marakwet region AK branch chairman.

Marathon world record holder Wilson Kipsang’ is among the prominent athletes expected to flag off the race.

“Iten has over the years gained international recognition as the world’s breeding ground for elite runners who went on to establish themselves in the global scene. This, being one of the major races in Rift Valley, we expect a fierce contest,” said Rita Okuthe, Director of Marketing, Safaricom.

The high altitude training camps in Iten has continued to attract international athletes and the presence of these athletes will make the event more competitive.

After Iten, Safaricom Athletics Series will move to Kisii Half Marathon, Mombasa International Marathon, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Memorial Race - Bondo, Kebirigo Road Race, Ndalat Gaa Cross Country, Madoka Half Marathon - Wundanyi, Tegla Loroupe Peace Race - Kapenguria, KASS Marathon - Eldoret, Imenti South Road Race - Nkubu and Kisumu National Marathon - Kisumu.