Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) first-year student, Gideon Kibet, stole the spotlight at the Standard Chartered Marathon Kakamega satellite run by clinching victory in the 21km race.
The event, served as a prelude to the highly anticipated 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, which is set for October 27, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.
Kibet's remarkable performance highlighted the growing talent pool in Kenya's western region. His victory in the race, which attracted over 160 participants, showcased not only his determination but also his readiness to compete at the highest levels of long-distance running.
Speaking after his win, Kibet expressed his gratitude to Standard Chartered Bank for providing a platform for local athletes and residents to be part of this prestigious marathon series.
"I want to thank Standard Chartered Bank for offering not only me but more students from MMUST and Kakamega residents a chance to participate and feel like part of the larger Standard Chartered Marathon family," Kibet said.
"It’s inspiring to know that even if we can't travel to Nairobi, we still get to compete and be involved in such a significant event."
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The Kakamega satellite run, featuring a 5km Family Fun Run and a 10km race, offered an opportunity for local residents and fitness enthusiasts to engage in the region's largest single-day sporting event.
The event brought together fitness, competition, and community interaction, all while providing a warm-up for the main marathon in Nairobi.
Kakamega was the second of three satellite runs organized ahead of the main event, following a successful race in Kisumu where Vincent Ouma triumphed in the Men's 10km race.
The final satellite run will take place in Mombasa on October 21, rounding off the series of regional races designed to bring the Standard Chartered Marathon experience closer to communities across the country.
Neema Gitau, Head of Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Kenya, spoke on the increasing interest from runners in various regions, stating, "The addition of satellite races in regions like Kisumu, Kakamega, and Mombasa underscores our commitment to offering nationwide opportunities for everyone to join in this celebration of fitness and sport."
This year's Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has already attracted more than 24,900 registered runners, supported by over 40 sponsors, and raised Sh173 million.
All proceeds will go toward the Futuremakers initiative by Standard Chartered, focusing on empowering young people—especially women and those with disabilities—through skills development in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 8, which promotes inclusive economic growth and decent work for all.
As Kibet’s victory in Kakamega shows, the marathon continues to inspire future champions while bringing together communities across Kenya.