By Robert Kibet
@Kibet_88
Kenya’s Mountain Running Series, spanning Meru, Longonot, and Tindiret, is redefining the nation’s standing in global mountain athletics while seamlessly blending sports, tourism, and cultural heritage. By showcasing Kenya's stunning terrains, the series not only enhances its reputation as a powerhouse in distance and trail running but also lays the groundwork for an enduring sporting legacy.
The series made an impactful debut with the inaugural Mt. Longonot Trail Challenge, Kenya’s first World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) global ranking event. The competition delivered thrilling performances, with Timothy Kibet taking the men’s title in 1:02:04 and Ruth Gitonga triumphing in the women’s race with a time of 1:14:50. Reflecting on the event’s success, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei underscored the value of these races in driving sports tourism and putting Kenya’s landscapes on the global map.
“There is no better way to showcase Kenya's stunning landscapes and position ourselves as a top tourist destination than through mountain and trail running,” Chepkemei said. She confirmed plans to expand the series, with the Barng’etuny Mountain Run in Tindiret set as the next stop in January 2025.
The Tindiret event, which combines athleticism with cultural and health initiatives, promises to be a spectacle. Hon. Julius Melly, MP Tindiret and Patron of the Barng’etuny Mountain Run, highlighted its dual focus on sports excellence and community engagement. “This run is not just about competition; it’s about promoting health, preserving our traditions, and showcasing the beauty of Nandi County to the world,” Melly said.
The series also includes Mt. Kenya Mountain Run in Meru, an event that has drawn international athletes and amplified conversations about environmental conservation.
These races show that Kenya is not just about flat-course marathons. Kenya has the talent, terrain, and ambition to dominate global mountain running.
The Barng’etuny Mountain Run, in particular, offers a unique opportunity to blend sports and innovation. The event will feature cultural showcases, including traditional Nandi cuisine, and highlight modernity with exhibitions at the Taptengele Tech Centre. “It’s a perfect fusion of tradition and technology,” Barnaba Korir, AK Youth Development Director, said.
The impact of the series is already being felt. Emerging talents from these mountain races have started to receive invitations to international competitions, challenging global contenders in a discipline previously dominated by European and South American athletes.
WMRA President Tomo Sarf commended Kenya's dedication to mountain running, highlighting its transformative impact on the sport. "Kenya’s participation injects vibrant energy and showcases the immense potential of African nations in mountain running. The success of the Longonot event is a clear testament to this promise," he remarked.
As the mountain running series progresses, Kenya seeks to inspire a new generation of athletes while cementing its status as a premier destination for sports tourism. Boasting high participation, breathtaking landscapes, and increasing international attention, the series demonstrates the transformative power of sports in uplifting communities and enhancing a nation’s global profile.
“This isn’t just about winning medals; it’s about building a lasting legacy that weaves together health, culture, and athletic excellence,” said Barnaba Korir. With anticipation mounting for the upcoming Barng’etuny Mountain Run, Kenya’s peaks are evolving beyond geographical marvels into global arenas for athletic achievement.
