Focus on wildlife rangers as UltraMARAthon 2025 is launched

Registration for the much-anticipated sixth edition of the UltraMARAthon has officially opened, with this year’s race scheduled set to take place on November 15 across the scenic landscapes of the Maasai Mara.

The launch event, held at a Nairobi hotel on Wednesday, brought together partners, conservationists, and past participants to mark the beginning of this year’s campaign.

Runners from across Kenya and beyond are now invited to sign up for the 50-kilometre ultra-distance challenge, which promises a one-of-a-kind experience through the northern Mara conservancies.

More than just a race, the UltraMARAthon is a charity-driven initiative aimed at raising funds to support wildlife rangers and bolster community health efforts in the greater Mara ecosystem.

The 2025 edition will once again wind through Lemek, Mara North, and Ol Chorro Conservancies, immersing participants in the region’s stunning natural beauty and conservation efforts.

Speaking at the event, Beatrice Karanja, Board Chair of the Mara Elephant Project, emphasised the critical role of rangers in safeguarding Kenya’s biodiversity.

 “Every step our runners take helps keep our rangers on the frontlines of conservation and strengthens access to essential healthcare for Mara communities,” she said.

In his part, Special Projects Manager at Mara Elephant Project Wilson Sirouwa said the marathon will positively impact the communities living within the conservancy as well as rangers.

“This marathon started in 2021 and we have seen many benefits in term of supporting the rangers operations and their equipment which increase their effort on the ground.  Other benefits include clinics in Mara West which helps a lot the women.

“This year we are looking forward to support the rangers and as we are moving to digital where they will advance the technology. Rangers will have the drone training and purchasing the drone which rangers will use in medicating conflicts in the ecosystem,” explained Sirouwa.

Also in attendance were past ranger-runners Cosmas Bett and Fancy Chepkemoi, who shared moving testimonies of running for a cause that protects both wildlife and people.

“I started running in 2024 and I thank the management because we really benefitted a lot and I’m looking forward to participate this year,” said Chepkemoi.

“I have been participating in the Ultra Marathon since its inception and it has benefited us a lot as rangers. We have benefited from uniforms and drone pilot education. During the Covid – 19 pandemic we witnessed slot of donors who come through to support us more so those who lost their jobs. I’m very ready to take part this tear and I’m sure it will be one of its kind,” said Cosmas Bett.

Registration details and race information are available via the UltraMARAthon official platforms.