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Ndakaini Half Marathon returns after three-year hiatus

The 17th edition of the race will be run on September 16 at the Ndakaini Dam, Murang'a County making its return after three years since its last edition in 2019.

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by FIDENS TONY

Sports12 July 2023 - 02:00
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In Summary


  • • The theme of this year's event theme will be "Conserving the environment and promoting sports talents at the grassroots level."
  • • Speaking during the launch NDEKA chairman, James Mukuna said they are proud to bring back the race since people have been questioning about its whereabouts.
NDEKA chairman James Mukuna (C) flanked by AK Central region second vice chairman Francis Kamau (R) and AK Muranga county chairman George Muriithi during the launch of the Ndakaini Half Marathon

Ndakaini Half Marathon returns on September 16 after three years of absence following the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 17th edition of the race will take place at the Ndakaini Dam, Murang'a County with the last edition having taken place in 2019.

The theme of this year's event theme will be "Conserving the environment and promoting sports talents at the grassroots level."

The marathon will feature three categories for both men and women thus — 21km, 10km, and 5km.

Speaking during the launch Ndakaini Dam Environment Conservation Association (NDEKA) chairman, James Mukuna said they are proud to bring back the race since people have been asking about its whereabouts. 

"NDEKA is very excited to bring back this event after being disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The steady growth of this event has been central in raising funds for the conservation of the environment around the dam, which is a major water source for over four million Kenyans," said Mukuna.

"This year, we are expanding our focus to include promoting sports talent at the grassroots level. We understand there is a need for a holistic approach to sports development in the country," he added. 

Speaking at the launch, Athletics Kenya (AK) Central region's second vice chairman, Francis Kamau,  lauded NDEKA for their commitment to revive the event. He termed the annual race a talent hub for Kenya.

"Today marks a significant milestone in the country's athletics calendar. We join hands to revamp this initiative for the benefit of our athletes and athletics enthusiasts from different parts of the country," said Kamau.

"I encourage runners to embrace this opportunity and consider this competition as a stepping stone to future success in their athletic pursuits," he added.

Registration for the race is ongoing on the Ndakaini Half Marathon website with entry fees for each set at Sh1,500 per person. Proceeds from the race will be channeled to the conservation of the Ndakaini Dam.

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