Kiplagat, Kemunto set the pace as 2,000 runners warm up for Nairobi Marathon

More than 2,000 runners gathered at Parklands Sports Club on Sunday for a warm-up race ahead of the 23rd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.

Victor Kiplagat won the men’s 21-kilometre race in 1:10:10, while Millicent Kemunto emerged victorious in the women’s race after clocking 1:22:46.

The event provided runners with an opportunity to assess their fitness and build momentum ahead of the main marathon on October 25, with participants taking part in different race distances.

“Winning today has given me confidence as I prepare for the main race next month. The competition was strong and I am happy with my performance. I will use this momentum as I work towards achieving an even better result at the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon,” said Kiplagat.

The 2026 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon will be held along Nairobi’s Southern Bypass and is expected to attract more than 30,000 runners. The race has also secured World Athletics Road Race Label status, placing it among recognised international road races.

The event will feature seven categories, including the 42-kilometre marathon, 21-kilometre half marathon, 10-kilometre race, 21-kilometre wheelchair race, 5-kilometre Family Fun Run, CEO Challenge and Corporate Challenge.

A satellite run will be held in Mombasa on October 18 as organisers continue to build momentum towards the main event.

It has also earned the prestigious World Athletics Road Race Label, reflecting its compliance with international standards on areas including course measurement, timing, medical support, environmental responsibility and anti-doping.