By KPC Reporter
Maasai Mara University (MMU) has kicked off its inaugural athletics competition, the Maasai Mara Run, aimed at promoting tourism and combating climate change.
The Narok-based university, in collaboration with partners such as Athletics Kenya, Kenya Red Cross, KCB, KenGen, Medicatia Hospital, and others, organized successful races across multiple distances, including 10km, 6km, 4km, and 2km for different categories.
In the men’s 10km race, Hillary Kibet emerged as the champion, beating John Kareithi and Victor Chepkwony, who came second and third respectively.
In the women’s 10km race, Fancy Chepkoech claimed the top spot ahead of Damaris Towet and Faith Chelang’at.
In the men’s 6km category, Brian Kiplangat finished first, followed by Evanson Kipkurui and Suyianka Kantai.
The women’s 6km race was won by Angela Miriam, who dashed past Lornah Lurisia and Belio Jacklime, who came second and third consecutively.
Speaking during the event, MMU Vice-Chancellor Professor Peninah Aloo-Obudho emphasized the university’s strategic location near natural resources such as the Mau Forest, Maasai Mara National Game Reserve, and the Mara Ecosystem, which is home to the iconic wildebeest migration.
She stressed the importance of environmental consciousness and lauded all participants across the different categories.
Some participants expressed excitement and optimism for next year’s race. Mzalendo Amos Kemboi, a Maasai Mara University staffer who ran the 6km race in 21 minutes, vowed to work harder to improve his time in future competitions.
Corporate partners also praised the initiative. Stanley Kirui, KCB Narok branch manager, said, “As a corporate, we are in cognizance of the fact that climate change is a monster that should be tackled.”
Douglas Mbaka from Medicatia Hospital added that the hospital found it fitting to support such a worthy cause.
The event brought together athletes, staff, corporate partners, and community members, highlighting the synergy between sports, tourism, and climate action.