As an Olympic gold medalist, Cheptegei’s initiative goals to advertise athletics in Uganda whereas supporting essential social and environmental causes.
The second version of the extremely anticipated Elgon Half Marathon, that includes world-renowned athlete Joshua Cheptegei, is ready for November 2nd.
Organised by the Joshua Cheptegei Basis in partnership with the United Nations Improvement Programme (UNDP), this yr’s occasion carries the theme: “Operating for Local weather Motion, Inclusive Financial Development, and the Elimination of Gender-Based mostly Violence (GBV).”
As an Olympic gold medalist, Cheptegei’s initiative goals to advertise athletics in Uganda whereas supporting essential social and environmental causes.
The marathon is not going to solely increase sports activities tourism within the scenic Elgon area but in addition promote group participation and environmental sustainability.
This yr’s marathon may even characteristic a tree-planting drive, with 1,500 saplings supplied by the Nationwide Forestry Authority (NFA) and Uganda Airways.
Throughout a symbolic occasion at Court docket View Resort, Benjamin Njia, second vp for Technical Affairs on the Uganda Athletics Federation, unveiled the marathon’s new routes.
The 20-kilometre route, ranging from Cricket Floor, will take runners by means of the world’s beautiful landscapes, whereas the 5km and 10km routes will start at Republic Road and cross landmarks just like the Mbale Resort Resort.
Njia emphasised that the marathon route has been licensed by the World Athletics Federation, guaranteeing that document occasions will qualify athletes for skilled recognition.
He additionally introduced elevated prize cash for this yr’s race, encouraging extra participation.
By way of his basis’s consultant, Justin Jims Yeko, Cheptegei urged Ugandans and worldwide supporters to hitch the occasion.
“Let’s run, stroll, or cycle collectively for a standard goal–promoting a more healthy way of life, constructing stronger communities, and securing a sustainable future. I invite our worldwide associates to expertise the heat and hospitality of Mbale,” Cheptegei stated.
Cheptegei additionally highlighted the marathon’s broader objectives: “We’re empowering ladies and youth, boosting native economies, and showcasing the great thing about the Elgon area.”
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Lorna Pascqua Abur, UNDP’s Uganda Tourism Venture Officer, confused the occasion’s significance in diversifying Uganda’s tourism choices by means of sports activities.
“For Uganda to stay aggressive as a nature-based vacation spot, we should diversify. Collaborating with international figures like Joshua Cheptegei helps us obtain this imaginative and prescient,” Abur remarked. She referred to as on locals to help the marathon, envisioning it as a future worldwide draw.
Mbale metropolis authorities, represented by the mayors in absentia, urged residents to take part in giant numbers as hosts. Members are required to buy a marathon equipment, which prices Shs30,000 and features a vest, water bottle, and bag.
This occasion not solely emphasizes the worth of athletics but in addition demonstrates a dedication to sustainability and group improvement, making the Elgon Half Marathon a major occasion for each native and worldwide stakeholders.
