A 37-years-old marathoner representing Nyeri County is scheduled to jet out of the country this week on Thursday to Durban, South Africa for the ultra-marathon which will be held on Sunday June 9, this year.
Reuben Njoroge will travel to South Africa this week where he will participate in the comrade’s marathon scheduled from 6.30 am to 6.30 pm (S.A time).
The comrade’s marathon is an ultra-marathon of approximately 88 kilometres which is run annually in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa between the cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg. It is the world’s largest and oldest ultra-marathon race.
Njoroge was the winner of last year’s 4th edition of the mountain to mountain ultra-marathon which started at Mt Kenya – Naromoru gate to Aberdare Wandare gate covering 80 kilometres.
While receiving the Nyeri official flag from Nyeri deputy governor David Kinaniri on behalf of Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, the marathoner at the same time thanked the Deputy Governor, Nyeri Governor, the Gender, Youth & Sports CECM Esther Ndung’u, the County Government of Nyeri and other stakeholders for the sponsorship of the forthcoming marathon and promised to shine during the race and bring home medals.
The sponsor has paid the registration fee, air ticket, and full accommodation for the five days he will be in South Africa.
Speaking during the function Kinaniri wished the champion all the best and encouraged other young people to emulate Njoroge saying that every dream can come true and be a winner just like this of Njoroge.
He also encouraged the youth to shun drugs and engage in athletics to earn income and improve their health.
Having participated in the two oceans marathon held in Cape Town in South Africa in April, Njoroge is optimistic for a win this time since he is conversant with the weather and the area. During the race, he emerged as no. 34 out of over 3,000 participants.
“This is a dream come true for me being one of the participants. I have trained well enough. I will perform well. I will do my best. I won’t let down my sponsors.” said Njoroge.
This comes as preparation for the 5th edition of the mountain to mountain ultra-marathon kicked off in Nyeri County. The 80km marathon from Mt Kenya- Naromoru gate to Aberdare Wandare gate seeks to raise awareness on the protection of water towers to mitigate climate change and promote regular exercise for good health and tourism in Nyeri County.
Chief Officer Joe Gethi department of gender, youth, sports and social Services, the Urban Swara running club led by the Chairman Anthony Kiai among others were also present during the presentation of the flag outside the Nyeri governor’s office.
By Beth Ndirangu
