Eldoret City Marathon champion Elkanah Yego has confirmed his participation in the 2019 edition of the event, pledging to defend his title on April 21. The athlete, currently training in Kamendi, Trans Nzoia County, expressed anticipation for the competition.
Last year's race saw Yego finish with a time of 2:12:44, edging out Phillip Kangogo (2:12:49) and Brian Kipsang (2:12:50). In the women's category, Sharon Cherop secured victory with a time of 2:29:57, ahead of Lydia Cheromei (2:33:25) and Jane Jelagat Seurei (2:33:46).
Yego acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, "I know competition will be stiff and I will be competing with my training mate Samuel Kemboi, whom I fear might beat me, but he must also be prepared for a real battle." The race organizers announced an increase in prize money to Sh3.5 million for both men's and women's categories.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago, the event's patron, highlighted the environmental focus of this year's marathon. "The proceeds will support conservation efforts, including planting over one million seedlings to achieve a 10% forest cover within a decade," he said. Registration for the event is available at Rupa Mall in Eldoret or through online platforms.
