Elite runners are set to compete at the 9th edition of the annual Chemususu Half marathon set for next Saturday in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County.
Race director Mathew Birir said that they are receiving massive registration and come Saturday November 11th, the battle of titans will be showcasing their running talents and skills for top prizes.
The former Olympic Games 3,000m steeplechase champion said that this year’s edition has attracted top cooperates and athletes who will be involved in various activities before the race.
“As race organizers, we are anticipating a big number of athletes between 500 and 1,000 because this is the best half marathon race so far in the country,” said Birir, who also won the world junior 3,000m steeplechase title.
He said that the event will not only be running but the conservation of the Chemususu Dam among other events to the society.
“we shall start our activities like educating locals on agribusiness because we need athletes to eat well before running, free medical camp and distribution of sanitary towels as a way of educating the community that conserves the forest as well as the dam,” he said.
He said that the race has been growing yearly with many sponsors coming on board to ensure the running and training environment for athletes.
On prize money, he said that they are not increasing but it will remain constant. However, he said that they will increase in future.
“For now, the winner, for both men and women will pocket Kshs 250,000 followed by kshs 150,000 and kshs 100,000 for second and third finishers respectively. We shall award up to the 10th finisher with Kshs 10,000,” added Birir.