Over 21,000 runners are expected at this year's 20th edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon at Uhuru Gardens on Sunday.
In a press briefing on Wednesday, the organisers said athletes from over 90 countries have confirmed participation in hunt for a share of the Sh11 million prize purse.
Local Organising Committee chairman Peter Gitau expressed his enthusiasm about the diverse pool of participants.
''Since its inception 20 years ago, the marathon has brought together more than 270,000 runners from all walks of life. This year is no different," said Gitau.
''We have 3,000 elite athletes and Athletics Kenya are currently reviewing and looking at their profiles which we will share later."
"That's a large number to start with and we are excited. Besides, 45 percent of the runners are women—meaning we have achieved our target as far as gender balance is concerned.''
The marathon has been divided into five categories including 42km and corporate relay, 21km wheelchair, 21km, 10km, and 5km family races.
The races will start and conclude at Uhuru Gardens along Langata Road.
The 42km and corporate relay will start at 6 am, followed by the 21km wheelchair race at 5:45 am, 21 km at 6:45 am, 10km race at 8 am, and the 5 km family race at 9:30 am.
Gitau commended the corporate sector for their significant participation, constituting 78 percent of the participants.
''I would like to give a shout-out to companies since they encouraged employees to register for this marathon," added Gitau.
To ensure smooth traffic flow, runners have been advised to use the southern bypass, where the Nairobi Traffic Department will manage road closures and detours.
National Traffic Commandant Mary Omari said: "To make this marathon a success, we have created a schedule of road closures and detours. These measures will redirect traffic between Saturday 11 pm and Sunday 1:30 pm. This might cause temporary inconveniences but bear in mind it will ensure the safety and success of this marathon.''
Gitau added: "We trust the event will continue with little or no hitches. We have also ensured that the start times and finish are well managed. CCTV cameras along the course will ensure delivery of a world-class marathon and experience to all participants as we celebrate our 20th anniversary.''
The winners of the full marathon will receive Sh2m each for both the men's and women's categories.
Gitau added that Sh672m has been raised in the 19 editions of the marathon. The funds have been used for numerous corporate social responsibility initiatives including Future Makers.