NAIROBI, Kenya, May 13- Eight hundred runners have so far registered for the Sotokoto Safari Half marathon scheduled for May 23.
Race director Robert Ouko said on Thursday that it has been a challenge to reach their participation target of 4000 runners and that he might have to extend the registration deadline to the eve of the race to accommodate a possible late surge.
“If we have issues, I have been persuaded to extend the deadline from May 15 to the 22nd, the day before the race. We believe we can handle that,” said Ouko.
Runners who register after the 15th will incur a time penalty.
Ouko added that they have finalized the 21 km route which will centre around the Langata area.
“The race will start outside the Uhuru Gardens on Langata Road. The athletes will head to Southlands roundabout. They will then come down to Aerodrome then through the Bunyala and Nyayo Stadium roundabouts then back up Langata Road,” said Ouko.
Race CEO Douglas Wakihurii said that they have received confirmation of participation from athletes from 16 countries including Lebanon, United States and China.
Defending champion David Tarus is expected to defend his crown.
Adults will pay Sh1000 to register as individuals while children will pay Sh500. Corporate teams will fork out Sh20,000 shillings to enter.
Proceeds from the marathon will go towards conservation activities, provide education for children living in rural areas and promote sports and community development.
