This archive report was first published on 11 November 2019.
On November 10, 2019, Leonard Langat and Vibian Chepkorir claimed the top spots in the 2nd edition of the Gakuru Memorial Half Marathon at Kamukunji Grounds in Nyeri Town, completing the 21km race in 65:12:9 and an undisclosed time, respectively.
The annual event was established to honor the late Governor Wahome Gakuru, who passed away on November 7, 2017, in a road accident.
At the event, Governor Mutahi Kahiga, the chief guest, noted that the marathon had become a significant form of sports tourism for the county, attracting runners from neighboring counties.
"The marathon is attracting runners from other counties such as Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Nakuru, which is a great form of tourism as these runners spend and visit the county, boosting our economy," Governor Kahiga said.
Winners in the 21km race received Sh100,000, which is below the Athletics Kenya's stipulated minimum prize money of Sh250,000 for a recognized marathon.
The event also featured 10km, 5km, and 2km races, with proceeds from the event going towards building an emergency response unit at the Nyeri County Referral Hospital.
