Belgut Marathon draws 25,000 runners, millions in bursaries for vulnerable students

Spearheaded by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, the day-long spectacle drew hundreds of thousands of supporters and well-wishers, underscoring Kenya's enduring commitment to grassroots development through sport.

The event, held across three race categories, achieved what organisers described as its most successful iteration yet.

The 21-kilometre half marathon showcased Kenya's elite distance-running prowess, with the 10-kilometre competitive race and five-kilometre community fun run expanding participation across age groups and fitness levels. The inclusive structure ensured that Belgut's marathon weekend transcended traditional running culture, becoming a celebration rooted in collective purpose.

Elite athletes commanded attention throughout the morning's competitive heats. Sandra Felis Chebet, Diana Chekemoi, and Miriam Chebet were among the standout female runners, while Edwin Bett, Leonard Barsoton, and Kyumbe Munguti led the men's divisions.

The presence of Olympic legend Eliud Kipchoge and champion runner Sheila Chepkurui elevated the occasion, drawing massive crowds and amplifying the marathon's visibility across Kenya's athletics community.

Political and administrative leadership converged to support Koech's initiative. The gathering included Senators Kipchumba Murkomen and Aaron Cheruiyot, National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, and principal secretaries Elijah Mwangi and Raymond Omollo.

Fellow MPs representing constituencies across the region, including Kiborek, Toto, and Japhet Nyakundi, underscored parliament's collective backing for the charitable framework Koech has anchored in his constituency.

At its heart, Sunday's marathon centred on transforming individual athletic effort into tangible educational support. Proceeds raised will fuel bursary and scholarship programmes run by the Belgut Starehe Boys' and Girls' centres, institutions dedicated to nurturing needy, orphaned, and vulnerable students.

The funds unlock educational pathways for populations historically underserved by Kenya's education system, converting marathon kilometres into life-changing opportunities.