ELDORET SET FOR MARATHON: Kisorio and Chepchirchir confirm defence of Family Bank Marathon titles this Sunday

Family Bank CEO Peter Munyiri presents a dummy cheque of Sh 10million to the Out-going Athletics kenya President Isaiah Kiplagat towards the family Bank Eldoret Half Marathon scheduled for October 4, 2015 in Eldoret. [PHOTO:DENNIS OKEYO/STANDARD]

Eldoret town comes alive as the ninth edition of the Family Bank half marathon race gets underway on Sunday.

A handful of elite marathoners sharpening their tactics ahead of Amsterdam, Chicago, Frankfurt and New York City marathons will be up against a huge crowd of upstarts.

Five-time World Cross-Country runner Mathew Kisorio and Peris Chepchirchir will be back to defend their titles at the ninth Family Bank half marathon on Sunday.

The two, who thrilled crowds in Eldoret to take home the prize purse, will be eyeing the races’ increased pay as they line up in the three loops around Eldoret thoroughfares.

Kisorio is expected to take on his younger brother Nicholas Togom, the former Africa cross-county champion, who also competed in the 2014 edition.

Eric Ndiema, the 2013 winner will also be back as well as Mercy Kibarus, fourth at the IAAF world half marathon and 2012 Marseille Cassis half marathon winner.

Oliver Mutai, the Eldoret West Family Bank manager and race organiser, said more than 1,200 runners are expected to participate.

“We have increased the winning prize money from Sh150,000 for winners to Sh250,000. Runners-up will take home Sh100,000 while second runner-up pockets Sh90, 000,” said Mutai.
He went on: “Kisorio and Chepchirchir have confirmed they will defend their titles.”

The 21km contest will be preceded by the Family Bank Golf tournament at the par 71 Eldoret Club golf course on Saturday.

Peter Munyiri, the Family Bank Managing Director, will lead over 100 golfers in battle for top honours.

“We are very proud to host such sporting events in Eldoret and by sponsoring golf and marathon shows our commitment to elevating sports in the region,” Mutai said.

“We have finalised preparations. Registration is ongoing and will close on Sunday morning,” added Mutai.

Athletics Kenya North Rift branch chairman Abraham Mutai said they expect a high standard competition.
“The standard of the race has grown and will attract even international runners,” said Mutai.

The race that starts at Eldo Centre along the Uganda road and follows a three-kilometre course loop in the streets of Eldoret town will see athletes battle it seven times.