Thousands set for MTN marathon

Former world and steeplechase champion Dorcus Inzikuru has signed up to defend her crown in the women’s 21km but comes up against a tricky opponent in Adero Nyakisi.

KAMPALA

Thousands will again hit the streets of the city this morning in the annual MTN Kampala Marathon hoping to make a positive change to the lives of people in Bududa affected by mudslides.

Among them will be Francis Musani, Uganda’s last winner of the 42km event back in 2008. Since then, Kenyans have been dominant across the seven hills of Kampala with locals finding success in the shorter 21km and 10km events.

Last year’s 42km race, won by Kenya’s James Kariuki, had Moses Cherop, in fifth as the highest placed Ugandan. Kariuki’s countrymate David Tarus is among the favourites with Ethiopia’s Debela Tirfuma expected to push him.

That event will be spiced by opposition leader Col. Dr Kiiza Besigye who spoke of his admiration for the athletes. “I know marathon is not an easy thing. I always presume that after about several hours your body just shuts down,” Besigye, 56, said this week. “The only time athletes smile is when they cross the finish line but apart from that, it is effortless for most people.”

The smile will even be bigger after all the runners have fulfilled this year’s theme of “Run For Life.”
There will be strong representation from the Forces teams. These athletes have only completed the Inter-Forces Games recently.

Abraham Kiplimo, winner of the 10km event last year ahead of steeplechaser Jacob Araptany, is moving up to the 21km event. “Being my first time, I know it will be very difficult. But I am prepared for whatever comes my way. I will try to win,” Kiplimo told Sunday Monitor.

ikigongo@ug.nationmedia.com