This archive report was first published on 11 September 2019.
On Wednesday, the Madoka half Marathon received a significant boost in its preparations, courtesy of financial support from various sponsors. Kenya Ports Authority and Safaricom have pledged over six million shillings to support the event.
The sponsorship will cater for security, running numbers, winners' prizes, and logistical aspects of the event. This support is a testament to the growing popularity of the Madoka half Marathon, which has been a platform for talented athletes to showcase their skills.
Among the notable athletes who have benefited from the Madoka half Marathon is John Mwangangi, the 2012 World Half Marathon Bronze Medalist. The event's founder, Marsden Madoka, expressed his gratitude to the sponsors for their continued support over the years.
Madoka also announced plans to build a high-altitude training camp in Ngerenyi, with the County Government of Taita Taveta funding the initiative with Sh 20 million for the first phase. The camp is expected to provide a conducive environment for athletes to train and improve their performance.
Additionally, Madoka revealed plans to merge his Marathon with the Tsavo half marathon to raise funds for wildlife conservancy. This initiative is expected to not only support the conservation of wildlife but also provide a platform for athletes to compete and showcase their skills.
Athletics Kenya (AK) President Jackson Tuwei was present at the media briefing and expressed his support for initiatives like the Madoka Half Marathon. He emphasized the importance of such events in elevating athletes to international standards and encouraged sponsors to continue supporting such initiatives.
Tuwei also warned participating athletes against substance abuse and assured that anti-doping agencies will be on the ground to conduct tests. He revealed that trials for the world championships will start on September 12, 2019, and a team will be named shortly after the trials come to an end.
The Madoka Half marathon in Taita-Taveta marks the 14th edition of the national event, which will be held on September 22, 2019. The event is a 10-kilometer race, and the prize money for the top position will be Sh 300,000. The 42km Mombasa International Marathon will be held on October 5, 2019, with a prize money of Shs.100, 000 for the top position.
