This archive report was first published on 24 May 2020.
On May 24, 2020, the Lewa Safari Marathon, which was initially cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be held virtually. The event will be led by world record holder Eliud Kipchoge, who is preparing for the race scheduled for June 27.
During a practice session at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kipchoge ran alongside Lewa Rangers to promote the virtual race. He was joined by fellow athletes Geoffrey Kamworor, Philemon Rono, and Jonathan Rotich.
The Conservancy, located in Kenya's North, was a boost for the wildlife rangers and Tusk's Director of Programmes in Africa, Sarah Watson, who participated in the run.
"I urge everyone to participate and run wherever they are," Kipchoge said. "We are all part of the human family, and we must stay strong, stay fit, observe directives from our government, and know this situation is not permanent."
"I have never participated in the Lewa Marathon before, but it was inspiring to run with the rangers today in this beautiful conservancy and motivate them," Kipchoge added. "I would ask the rangers to continue doing a good job, as they are conserving our wildlife and environment."
During the practice run, Kipchoge and the Rangers navigated through the picturesque Lewa terrain, passing by grazing elephants and buffalos.
The virtual Lewa Safari Marathon aims to raise close to Sh500mn to support Lewa's conservancy projects. Athletes who have registered will run from wherever they are, continuing to support the marathon.
This year's race was set to be supported by Safaricom and Huawei, with Safaricom stepping down their annual financial support and joining forces with Huawei to raise the annual budget.
