The Iten Trail Run is set to debut on Saturday, March 9th, promising both a thrilling competition and a significant boost to athlete welfare.
The inaugural event, organized by the County Government and Canadian Running Clinic Foundation have partnered to host an inaugural event aimed at raising awareness and supporting athletes in overcoming injuries.
With a prize purse totaling Sh.500, 000 for the winners, the race is poised to attract top-tier talent, showcasing Iten’s status as a global hub for running excellence. Partnerships with esteemed organizations such as Simba for Kids, ADAC, and Athletics Kenya [AK] underscore the event’s significance within the athletics world.
Blaise Dubois, founder of The Running Clinic Foundation, emphasized the event’s dual focus on performance and injury prevention during a visit to the County Headquarters, where Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek extended her gratitude for the partnership.
He noted that the race aim is to help educate and reduce the risk of injury in each runner, helping them progress towards their running goals.
He noted that the race’s objective is to educate and minimize injury risk in each runner, enabling them to achieve their running objectives. Thus, Individuals with amputation require higher fitness levels than those without disabilities, but it’s crucial to consider the positive impact of training on mental well-being.
Acknowledging Iten’s esteemed track record in producing world-class runners, Dubois expressed confidence that the county would soon dominate the trails as well, setting sights on producing trail running champions within the next five years.
Elgeyo Marakwet Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek echoed Dubois’ sentiments, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like the Iten Trail Run in promoting health and education within the running community.
“As we prepare for the 3rd edition of the Iten International Marathon, it’s great to see initiatives like this promoting health and education in the running community,” remarked Prof. Cheserek. Hence, “Education on the physical well-being of our athletes is key,” she added.
Purity Koima, the County Executive Committee Member for Sports, highlighted the event’s significance as a sports tourism attraction, inviting participants to explore Iten’s scenic beauty while enjoying the adrenaline of competitive racing “We have tourist sites, and it’s a great time for our athletes and international visitors to experience Iten’s allure,” stated Koima.
Fortunately, the trail run is expected to attract around 60 international participants, with a maximum of 200 participants, offering a unique opportunity for everyone to participate.
Registration for the event is ongoing until March 8th, with a nominal fee of Sh. 300. The race, featuring a 25km trail for men and women, as well as a 2km kids’ race promises to be a test of endurance and skill, with rewards awaiting the top finishers.
By Rennish Okong’o
