Kihika promises bigger and better Nakuru City Half Marathon

Nakuru County Governor Susan Kihika says this year’s edition of the Stanbic Bank Nakuru City Half Marathon will be “big and better,” while underscoring her commitment to investing more in Sports development.

On Tuesday, the second edition Nakuru City Half Marathon which is set for November 27 was launched by the Governor, with a promise of hope to sports men and women in the County and the region at large.

Kihika is clear in her mind on the potential of athletics attracting tourists in the country.

"Sports tourism is an important aspect for us in Nakuru County. We aspire to become the county of choice for national and international athletes seeking a convenient training ground and to support our youth to compete internationally, and earn a living from sports. This is why I committed to fast-track the completion of Afraha Stadium and Keringet Sports Academy in Kuresoi South. This academy will be a game changer," said Kihika.

Last year, the marathon attracted 2,600 participants and the organisers saying that they are expecting a rise in the number.

“We are truly honored to once again partner with the county government of Nakuru to sponsor the 2nd edition of the Stanbic Nakuru City Marathon. Our thinking behind the marathon is to help nurture young talent and encourage them to chase their dreams of becoming the next best athletes in the country, a principle that aligns with our It Can Be brand promise.

"It Can Be speaks to the ethos of who we are and where we are going. We are putting the dreams and aspirations of our community at the forefront and providing them with experiences and attitudes required to unlock great possibilities," said Stanbic Bank Kenya Chief Executive Charles Mudiwa.

Stanbic Bank were also the main sponsors of the race last year, and Mudiwa expects the partnership to continue.

“We understand and appreciate that sports in Kenya not only bring people together but also contributes significantly to the country's social and economic development, " Mudiwa added.

County Sports CEC Sylvia Onyango welcomed the continued partnership between the County Government and Stanbic Bank saying it will go a long way in helping the County to realise their objective in sports. 

"We always welcome an opportunity to partner with stakeholders who can help us foster socio-economic development through the promotion of socio-cultural diversity; management and development of sports, recreation and sports facilities as well as youth empowerment through capacity building," noted Onyango.

Registration for the marathon officially kicked off on October 11, and is currently ongoing.