Frida Lopeda will be targeting a seventh consecutive title at the 24th edition of the annual Lewa Safari Marathon scheduled for this Saturday at the Lewa Conservancy, Isiolo county.
“I love the Lewa because of its hot climate, which works in my favour during the race, and it is also quite an enjoyable experience running alongside wild animals,” Lopeda said.
Lopeda, a seasoned athlete and a member of Cloud Nine Athletic Club, has been preparing diligently to defend her women’s 42km crown at her camp in Iten since January.
“I have been training rigorously since January, consistently covering 20kms in the morning and 10kms in the evening. On Saturdays, I push myself further, covering 40-45kms in the morning,” she revealed.
“Despite the unpredictability inherent in athletics, my determination to secure my seventh consecutive title remains unwavering, following my victory in last year’s marathon.”
This year’s edition has attracted 1,200 participants, all vying for glory in the various categories including the 42km (full marathon), 21km (half marathon), 10km and the 5km family fun run.
Since its inception in 2000, the marathon has raised over Sh1.1 billion which has been used in the preservation of natural resources and well-being of local communities throughout the region.
