According to the latest update from the organisers, preparations for the highly anticipated 2023 Rwenzori Mountain Marathon are gathering momentum.
Since its launch a few months ago, the Mt. Rwenzori Marathon has been making steady progress and has already garnered a considerable number of participants, just a week away from the main events.
During a press briefing yesterday at the UNDP offices in Kampala, Amos Wekesa, the director of Equator Hikes and the main organizer, stated that over 2000 runners have confirmed their participation in the lead-up to the marathon.
Ms. Elsie Attafuah, the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) resident representative to Uganda, also confirmed the marathon’s lead runner.
Wekesa then emphasized the importance of high-profile dignitaries taking part in such activities.
“The impact is that they inspire many youths. King Oyo Nyimba previously climbed the mountain’s highest peak, Margherita, and many people followed him on his climb. Two local kings have also expressed interest in climbing the Rwenzori, which is fantastic for Uganda. I recently climbed the Rwenzori Mountains, and its indescribable beauty is out of this world. The marathon will draw global attention to this resource and boost tourism numbers,” explained Amos Wekesa, the Director of Equator Hikes.
With around 2000 running enthusiasts and professional athletes expected to blaze the running trails at the base of the Rwenzori ranges, the marathon will pose a new challenge to both Ugandan and international runners.
The Rwenzori Marathon will comprise a full 42km marathon, a 21km half marathon, and a 5km fun run. Ordinary individuals are encouraged to participate in the 5km run and simultaneously enjoy the scenic beauty that Kasese has to offer.
In the 42-kilometer category, the first-place male and female winners will each receive Shs8 million, the second-place winners Shs5 million, the third-place winners Shs3 million, Shs2 million for the fourth-place winners, and Shs1 million for the fifth-place winners.
In the 21-kilometer category, the top male and female runners will each be awarded Shs5 million, the second-place runners Shs4 million, the third-place runners Shs3 million, the fourth-place runners Shs2 million, and the fifth-place runners Shs1 million.
For the local awards, winners in the 42-kilometre race (male and female) will each receive Shs500,000 for first place and Shs250,000 for second place. In the 21-kilometer race, the first-place male and female winners will each get Shs300,000, and the second-place winners will receive Shs200,000.
