The Nairobi City Marathon is back for its third edition, scheduled to take place on September 8, 2024. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, with a lucrative prize pool exceeding Ksh 20 million set aside for the top finishers across various race categories. With elite athletes from Kenya and beyond expected to participate, the competition is bound to be fierce as runners vie for substantial cash prizes and the honor of winning one of Kenya’s premier road races.
A Lucrative Prize Pool for Top Performers
The Nairobi City Marathon has quickly established itself as one of the most rewarding races in the region, both in terms of prestige and prize money. This year, the stakes are higher than ever, with more than Ksh 20 million on the line for the top 20 finishers in the full marathon. The winners of both the men’s and women’s races will walk away with a whopping Ksh 3.5 million each, making it one of the most lucrative marathon prizes in Africa.
“The Nairobi City Marathon has always aimed to reward excellence in long-distance running. We believe that this year’s prize money will not only attract top-tier talent but also motivate local athletes to push their limits and achieve greatness,” said James Njoroge, the event’s organizing committee chairman.
Cash Prizes for Full Marathon Top Finishers
The prize distribution for the full marathon is designed to reward a broad range of top performers. After the Ksh 3.5 million first-place prize, the runner-up will receive Ksh 2.25 million, while the third-place finisher will take home Ksh 1.5 million. The cash prizes continue to be substantial for those finishing in the top six, with fourth place earning Ksh 800,000, fifth place receiving Ksh 650,000, and sixth place getting Ksh 450,000.
Beyond the top six, athletes who finish seventh and eighth will be awarded Ksh 400,000 and Ksh 325,000, respectively. The prize money scales down to Ksh 30,000 for the 20th-place finisher, ensuring that even those who do not make the podium are recognized for their efforts.
Half Marathon and 10km Expressway Run Prizes
In addition to the full marathon, the Nairobi City Marathon also includes a half marathon and a 10km expressway run, each with its own set of cash prizes. The winner of the half marathon will receive Ksh 150,000, with the second and third-place finishers earning Ksh 80,000 and Ksh 50,000, respectively. Prizes extend to the sixth-place finisher, who will take home Ksh 20,000.
The 10km expressway run, a popular event for both amateur and professional runners, offers Ksh 100,000 to the winner. The second and third-place finishers will receive Ksh 60,000 and Ksh 40,000, respectively, while those finishing fourth, fifth, and sixth will earn Ksh 15,000 and Ksh 7,500.
“The half marathon and 10km races are vital parts of our event, providing opportunities for a wider range of runners to compete and be rewarded. We expect strong participation across all categories this year,” Njoroge added.
Attracting Top Talent: A Showcase of Elite Running
The substantial prize money is expected to attract top-tier talent from across Kenya and internationally. The Nairobi City Marathon has become a key event on the athletics calendar, drawing in elite athletes who are eager to compete in the capital city’s unique environment. The marathon route, which takes runners through some of Nairobi’s iconic locations, including the Nairobi Expressway, offers a challenging yet scenic course that tests the endurance and skill of participants.
Preparing for Race Day: What to Expect
As race day approaches, preparations are in full swing to ensure that the event runs smoothly. The organizers have been working closely with local authorities to secure the race routes, manage traffic, and provide all necessary amenities for the athletes. Safety is a top priority, with medical teams and hydration stations set up along the course to support the runners.
Athletes are advised to arrive early on race day to acclimatize and familiarize themselves with the course. The race is expected to start at 6:00 AM to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures, which are ideal for long-distance running.
Nairobi City Marathon: A Growing Legacy
Since its inception, the Nairobi City Marathon has quickly grown in stature, becoming one of the most anticipated road races in Kenya. The event not only highlights the rich talent in Kenyan long-distance running but also promotes the city of Nairobi as a prime destination for international athletics.
With a prize pool of over Ksh 20 million and a well-organized event structure, the Nairobi City Marathon is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators. The event continues to build on its reputation as a premier marathon, attracting runners from all over the world who are eager to compete in the heart of Kenya’s capital.
Conclusion: All Eyes on September 8
As the countdown to September 8 begins, anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting and competitive Nairobi City Marathon. With over Ksh 20 million in prize money at stake, the event is set to attract a high-caliber field of runners who will push their limits in pursuit of glory. Whether competing in the full marathon, half marathon, or 10km expressway run, athletes will have the chance to make their mark on one of Kenya’s most prestigious road races.
