MTN marathon targeting to raise Shs300m from runners

Since its inception in 2002 to date, MTN marathon has managed to raise Shs700m, which has been used in a number of projects in the Northern and Eastern Uganda regions over the years. About shs230m was raised in last year’s marathon and was used towards the provision of clean and safe water for the people of Amuria District.

Kampala

Organizers of the 2012 MTN Kampala marathon are targeting to raise shs300m from over 20,000 participants to help support the community of Bududa.

The marathon, which is scheduled for November 25, marks the tenth edition of the MTN marathon. It could become the biggest ever in Uganda since its inception in 2002 as the organizers have never collected more than shs300m over the past years.

Participants from Kenya, Sweden, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda and hosts Uganda are expected to run under the theme of ‘Run with your Heart.’ “This year’s collection will go towards the provision of water for the people of Bududa,” said the MTN boss Mazen Mroue during the marathon launch at Serena Hotel. “This will be achieved through a partnership with Red Cross that will be tasked with ensuring that these proceeds reach the most deserving.”

The event will feature three races; the full marathon (42km), half marathon (21km) and the 10km race. The races will all start at Kololo Airstrip. “MTN has always used the Kampala Marathon as an opportunity to involve thousands of Ugandans in charitable causes,” Mroue added. There will be enough space to accommodate at least 100 corporate tents with a minimum of three teams to qualify for a tent.

Each team will comprise of six members at a registration fee of shs1m while individual participants will register at a fee of shs15000 cash and shs14000 via MTN mobile money.

Huawei Uganda, the main sponsor’s of the event, have donated shs168m to support the one day activity. “Our aim is to help the less privileged members of the society. This marathon is a clear indication that we are supposed to come together and run for a good cause,” the MD Huawei Uganda, Eric Yanga said.

Last year, Kenyan James Kariuki and Ugandan women record holder Jane Suuto won the 42km, while former world champion in Steeplechase Dorcus Inzikuru and Onesmus Serem dominated the 21km race.

Viola Chemos (35:30) and Abraham Kiplimo (29:33) took the top prizes in the 10 km races. There will be prize money for the top three winners in each category.

odongoj@ug.nationmedia.com