NAIROBI, Kenya, May 3- Four thousand runners are expected to take part in this month’s Sotokoto Safari Half Marathon.Technical director Robert Ouko said that they have modified this year’s route to facilitate the participation of the surrounding community both as spectators and runners wjen the race is held on May 23.
“The race will start from here (Uhuru Gardens) runners will go onto the main road and through the estates of Akiba, Ngei and Rubia estates and then come out onto the main road again,” said technical director Robert Ouko.
The 21km race will also pass through Aerodrome Road, Mbagathi Way, Nyayo Stadium roundabout and Lusaka Road.
“We want to increase the number of spectators this year as opposed to last time when we ran the race in the Nairobi National Park which is restrictive,” he added.
Race CEO Douglas Wakihurii said that 290 runners have so far confirmed participation in the race which has realized increased interest from foreign runners.
“We have 10 international entries with three from the United States, four from Japan one form Australia, Lebanon and India,” said Wakihurii.
Defending champion David Tarus is believes the increased field of competitors makes it difficult for him to retain his crown.
“I expect this year to be quite challenging because there are more athletes taking part so it’s going to be a real battlefield. It won’t be easy but I’ll try my best,” said Tarus who won last year’s edition in a time of 1:02:29.
Ouko promised that the logistical problems that permeated last year’s vents are a thing of the past and that they have prepared well in advance for any eventuality.
The deadline for entries is May 15th which could be extended to May 18th with late entrants incurring a penalty.
Adults will pay Sh1000 to register as individuals while children will pay Sh500. Corporate teams will fork out Sh20,000 to enter.
Proceeds from the marathon go towards conservation activities, provide children’s education in rural areas and promotes sports and community development.
