)
Elite athletes prepare for the Iten International Marathon promising thrilling competition and redemption on a challenging high-altitude course.
Sunday will be a day of great anticipation as Elgeyo Marakwet County hosts the third edition of the Iten International Marathon.
The marathon and 10km races will feature a mix of seasoned competitors and emerging talent, all eager to claim glory on the familiar streets of Iten.
)
18:24 - 22.11.2024
Emmaculate Anyango: Kenya’s long-distance prodigy handed six-year doping ban
Emmaculate Anyango, who has been one of Kenya’s emerging athletes, has suffered a major blow after receiving a six-year ban over multiple doping violations.
For athletes like Simon Kimtai Kwarat, this Sunday represents not just a race, but a chance for redemption.
"I am well prepared for this year’s race, and I am praying for good results," said Kwarat, who hails from Mt. Elgon and trains under Kip Run management in Iten as quoted by Standard.
"It is my second attempt after I lost momentum at 38km in last year's race and ended up not securing a place in the top 20. My management has given me the nod to make another attempt this year."
)
11:30 - 22.11.2024
'They may not reach my achievements'- David Rudisha warns as climate change takes toll on athletes medal ambitions
The two-time Olympic 800m champion argues it will be improper for the world to give a blind eye and a deaf ear to the dream-shuttering climate change devastating effects
Kwarat, who has spent the last year improving his endurance and mastering the hilly terrain, hopes to secure a spot in the prize-winning top 20 bracket this time around.
His preparation reflects the commitment of many athletes who call Iten home training rigorously to compete both locally and on the global stage.
The marathon, which features a 42km main event alongside the 10km race, is expected to bring surprises, much like the previous editions.
Last year, Luke Kiprop and Naomi Chepkorir captured headlines with their stunning victories.
Organizers have promised a well-prepared course and an unforgettable experience for both athletes and spectators, with final touches being put in place ahead of race day.
)
15:23 - 22.11.2024
Talent drain: Rising exodus of young athletes to the US for fat paycheques threatens Kenya's dominance
Kenyan athletes are increasingly relocating to the US for better opportunities, risking the country’s dominance in athletics as financial and professional prospects abroad lure talent.
For 10km specialist John Lomoni, Sunday’s race serves as more than just a competition; it’s a milestone in his preparation for international events. Lomoni, who finished third in the 15km Iten race earlier this year, sees this event as a perfect testing ground.
"I have trained in Iten since January this year, and I am excited because I will be competing on the course where I have been training," said Lomoni, who hails from Nyandarua.
"Some sections are hilly, but I am well prepared to conquer it. I ran the Lukenya Half Marathon earlier in the year, and that prepared me well for tougher races."
)
10:24 - 23.11.2024
Mathew Kipsang faces in-form Rodrigue Kwizera at the Alcobendas Cross Country
The Burundian has reached the finish line first at the past three editions of this race, although he was disqualified in 2021
Lomoni’s journey has been slightly complicated by a recent injury, but he remains optimistic about his chances.
"I anticipate tough competition in the 10km, but my target will be a podium finish," he added.
The Iten International Marathon has gained recognition not only as a platform for local athletes to shine but also as a celebration of the town’s storied history in athletics.
Iten attracts runners from around the globe looking to train in its high-altitude environment and this weekend’s event is poised to cement its reputation further.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)