Hundreds turn up for Kisumu satellite run ahead of Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon

More than 260 runners gathered in Kisumu on Sunday to participate in the satellite run ahead of the 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, scheduled for October 27, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.

Participants took part in the 5km Family Fun Run, 10km, and 21km races, offering running enthusiasts who are unable to travel to Nairobi a chance to be involved in the region’s largest single-day sporting event.

The event blends fitness, competition, and community networking.The Kisumu race is one of three satellite runs organised ahead of the main marathon. The next two satellite events are scheduled for Friday, October 18, 2024 in Kakamega, and Monday, October 21, 2024 in Mombasa.

“Satellite runs were introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic when our first virtual marathon allowed participants to run from any location due to restrictions on public gatherings. This was opened to our brand networks across the country to be part of the event,” said Neema Gitau, Head Brand and Marketing Standard Chartered Kenya

“We have seen high interest from runners in Kisumu, Kakamega, and Mombasa, which has driven demand for us to continue holding these mini-events. The inclusion of satellite races in these regions reflects our commitment to providing nationwide opportunities for all to take part in this celebration of fitness and sport.”

The 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has attracted over 40 sponsors, collectively raising KES 173 million.

Proceeds from the marathon support the Futuremakers initiative by Standard Chartered, which aims to empower young people—especially women and individuals with disabilities—by helping them learn, earn, and grow.

The Futuremakers initiative focuses on three core pillars: education, employability, and entrepreneurship, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 8—promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.

Since its inception, the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has welcomed over 300,000 runners, establishing itself as one of the region’s premier athletic events.

Standard Chartered has committed KES 100 million toward this year’s marathon.This year, the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon is expecting over 25,000 participants.

The event will feature a range of races, including the 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km, the popular 5km Family Fun Run, and races specifically designed for persons with disabilities.