Eldoret City marathon that was set to be held on 11th April has been
postponed until further notice following the containment measures put by
President Uhuru Kenyatta last Friday to avoid the upsurge of coronavirus
pandemic spread in the county.
Today, race organisers led by Uasin Gishu governor Jackson Mandago and race director
Moses Tanui announced that a new date will be set after monitoring the COVID-19
situation in the country.
While announcing the news, Mandago said the decision has been reached following
recent protocols that were imposed by President Uhuru Kenyatta in a bid to
contain the spread of Covid-19.
“As a county, we have always been proud to host Eldoret City Marathon but because
of current Covid19 situation and protocols issued by the president, we have
decided to postpone it to a later date,” Mandago announced.
“We are going to have the marathon once the situation is eased and we will be
reviewing the situation regularly,” he added.
Race director Moses Tanui said all preparations had been completed and that they
were ready to debut an electronic timing system.
“Electron bibs had already been printed abroad and shipped to Kenya,” said the veteran athlete.
Roads has also been already marked by the technical team in readiness for the marathon which is in its third edition.
“Am so disappointed to announce the postponing of this race. This is where I belong and the spirit to give back to the society as a former athlete is being derailed by the coronavirus,” said Tanui.
He added that electronic bibs had already arrived as well as electronic watch, route marking was complete in readiness for the race that has partnered with Uasin Gishu County.
“This is a big blow to the sport that has given a chance for local athletes to earn a living. Majority of the athletes depend on such races to prosper in their lives. At the same time, we wanted to ensure that the crowds were to be controlled,” added Tanui.