This archive report was first published on 20 June 2020.
On June 20, 2020, Lillian Mutua, the wife of Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua, achieved a remarkable feat by completing a 35km marathon ahead of her 35th birthday.
According to Governor Mutua, his wife had been training for several months and enjoyed running. He revealed that she chose to run two days before turning a year older as Saturday was less disruptive of other people's schedules.
"Today, during a misty Machakos at 4am, I drove Lillian up Mua Hills to Kaseve centre where, with other top athletes and friends, she started a 35km birthday run to celebrate turning 35 years," Governor Mutua wrote on Facebook.
He later joined her at the 25km mark at the Machakos people's park, covered 10km, and the final kilometres with her to the finishing point at the upcoming A and L Hotel on Machakos Road.
"I am very proud of her. Happy birthday my love," Governor Mutua penned.
He encouraged Kenyans to exercise to enhance their fitness levels, saying, "I encourage all Kenyans to walk and run as often as possible for fun or even for getting from point A to point B. This is not only healthy to the overall body but also clears the mind and encourages focus. Fitness gives you an extra bounce in life."
Netizens reacted to the news, with some congratulating Lillian on her achievement and others expressing admiration for her determination.