This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
The 2019 Safaricom Lewa Marathon, which celebrated its 20th anniversary since its inception in 2000, concluded with Duncan Maiyo Kipkurui and Emma Muthoni Kiruki emerging as the champions. Kipkurui, a two-time Brighton Marathon winner, clocked in at 2:20.04, securing the top spot in the men's category.
In an interview with Citizen Digital, Kipkurui expressed his surprise at the level of support he received during the race, comparing it to running in London. He also mentioned that he had been training for two months prior to the event and was unaware that he was leading until the 21km runners began to drop out.
Emma Muthoni Kiruki, the 2008 winner, made a comeback after 11 years, finishing in 2:50.31, 13 minutes ahead of the second-place finisher, Daisy Kipsugut. Kiruki, who finished third in the 21km race in 2017 after a nine-year hiatus, attributed her success to following the half-marathon runners, which helped her increase her pace.
Men's and Women's Category Results ¶
In the men's category, Samson Lemaiyan and Edward Ndiritu secured the second and third spots, respectively, with times of 2:22.52 and 2:24.31. In the women's category, Daisy Kipsugut and Mary Wairimu finished in second and third place, with times of 3:03.03 and 3:18.50.
The 21km race saw Morris Munene defend his title, finishing in 1:06.06, while Miriam Nakitare won the women's 21km race in 1:15.11. The event, which was attended by over 1400 participants, including First Lady Margaret Kenyatta, who participated in the 5km race, marked a significant milestone in the marathon's history, celebrating 20 years since its inception in 2000.
