Kisorio eyes third Ndakaini marathon title

 

Over 4000 athletes will take part in the 13th edition of the UAP Old Mutual Ndakaini Marathon on Saturday in Ndakaini, Muranga County.

Among the elite athletes, who have registered for the race, is Amos Kaptich, who will be defending his 10km title.

Former Philadelphia Marathon champion Mathew Kisorio has also said he will be gunning for his unprecedented third successive 21km title.

Likewise, Pauline Korikwiang has also registered for the race and will be defending her half marathon title.

Korikwiang won the women's 21km category last year after she beat 2010 World Youth champion Gladys Chesir, who was the defending champion.

Janet Jesang, a cross-country specialist, is also looking to try her luck in the prize money when she competes in the 21km.

Beatrice Chepkemoi Mutai, another race favourite, will compete. Jameson Kabuku, who won last year's First Lady Half Marathon 10km race has also registered for the marathon.

The race organisers have said they are ready for the marathon. While speaking at a briefing ceremony in Nairobi, UAP Old Mutual Group Managing Director, James Wambugu outlined the company's commitment to ensuring they host a successful event.

"We are proud to announce that we have registered over 4,000 participants in 10km and 21km races. Elite registrations are at 173 in both categories" he said.

Ibrahim Hussein, the race technical director, appreciated the organisers' efforts to meet international marathon standards as they continue to work on the race logistics.

"This year, the organisers have made several improvements on the course. For the first time, the Ndakaini marathon will see an elite runners' category with a dedicated start-point in line with the world's standards in marathon races," he said.

Hussein expressed Athletics Kenya's pleasure for being associated with the Ndakaini Half marathon.

He said the marathon has been a great breeding ground for some of the country's best athletes.