The 2024 Stanchart Nairobi Marathon saw spectacular performances from elite Kenyan athletes as Ronald Kimeli Kurgat and Gladys Chemutai claimed victory in their respective categories. Held on Sunday, October 27, the marathon showcased intense competition, with top runners pushing their limits to secure their positions in one of Kenya’s most prestigious races. With a total prize pool of Ksh12.9 million, the event attracted high-caliber athletes and delivered thrilling races across several categories.
Ronald Kimeli Takes Men’s Title in a Tight Finish
Ronald Kimeli Kurgat emerged victorious in the men’s marathon, crossing the finish line with a time of 2:13:05. Kimeli, who had not expected to win, delivered a powerful final push in the last few meters to secure his triumph. His victory was hard-fought, as Dominic Kipkirui finished just eight seconds behind with a time of 2:13:13, while Peter Kwemoi took third place, crossing the line in 2:13:14.
Kimeli expressed his surprise and gratitude after the race, crediting his determination and the support of his teammate for the win. “It was not easy; we pushed ourselves until the last kilometer, and I gave it my all. I wasn’t expecting to win, but my teammate motivated me to keep going, and I’m grateful to God for the strength,” Kimeli said.
The men’s marathon saw intense competition throughout, with the top three finishers battling it out for supremacy. Kimeli’s victory serves as a testament to his perseverance and determination in the face of strong opponents.
Gladys Chemutai Claims Victory in the Women’s Race
In the women’s marathon, Gladys Chemutai put on an impressive performance, finishing with a time of 2:31:52 to take the top spot. Chemutai was closely followed by Caroline Koech, who crossed the line in 2:35:00, while Joy Kemuma finished third with a time of 2:36:06.
For Chemutai, this victory was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. She had competed in the Stanchart Nairobi Marathon twice before, finishing fifth last year, but this time she was determined to come out on top. “I’m thankful to God for this win… It wasn’t easy, but I’m happy to have won. This is my third time racing here, and I didn’t expect to win—last year, I finished fifth. I train in Iten, and after going back to the drawing board, I put in the work, and I’m glad I kept my promise to win,” Chemutai said.
Her victory marked a significant personal achievement and highlighted her progress as an athlete. Chemutai’s determination to succeed after narrowly missing out on a podium finish last year paid off in a big way, making her win even more meaningful.
Vincent Mutai Overcomes Struggles to Win Men’s Half Marathon
In the men’s half marathon, Vincent Mutai overcame early struggles, including vomiting twice during the race, to secure victory with a time of 1:03:27. Despite the physical challenges, Mutai maintained his pace and composure to outshine his competitors. Keyborn Obato finished second in 1:03:34, while Silas Chepkwony took third place with a time of 1:03:51.
Mutai’s resilience was evident in his post-race comments, where he acknowledged the difficulty of the race but credited his preparation for the win. “The race was okay, and the weather was perfect… I had prepared well and felt there was something good for me today. I hadn’t expected to win, but I knew I could from my preparation. Now, I’ll focus on cross-country races,” he said.
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Caroline Olbara Takes Women’s Half Marathon Title
In the women’s half marathon, Caroline Olbara ran a strong race, finishing with a time of 1:11:06 to take first place. Olbara maintained her lead throughout the race, outpacing her competitors. Gladys Koech finished second with a time of 1:12:10, while Esther Chemutai claimed third place in 1:12:12.
Olbara’s victory was a testament to her consistency and ability to manage the race’s pace. Her disciplined performance helped her secure the win in a competitive field.
John Wambua Triumphs in the Men’s Wheelchair Race
The Stanchart Nairobi Marathon also celebrated the triumph of athletes with disabilities, with John Wambua winning the men’s wheelchair race. Wambua completed the course in 1:29:01, showcasing remarkable strength and determination. Milton Ilahuya finished second with a time of 1:34:56, while Caleb Henry took third place, crossing the line in 1:37:59.
Wambua, who has been a consistent performer in wheelchair racing, expressed his delight with the win and his ambitions for future international races. “I put in a lot of work before coming to this race, and I’m glad to have won. This proves I’m ready for international marathons, and I’ll be prepared when the opportunity arises,” Wambua said.
The Prize Pool and Rewards
The 2024 Stanchart Nairobi Marathon featured a total prize pool of Ksh12.9 million, which was distributed across various categories. Winners of the 42km race in both the men’s and women’s categories were awarded Ksh2 million, while second-place finishers received Ksh1 million, and those finishing third took home Ksh500,000.
The generous prize pool continues to attract elite athletes from across the country, making the Stanchart Nairobi Marathon one of Kenya’s premier sporting events. The financial rewards not only recognize the athletes’ hard work but also help support their future training and competition efforts.
