Athletes looking to hit qualifying standards for various races around the world including the Olympics can now look forward to making it via the annual Rwenzori Marathon after it received World Athletics Certification recently.

Achieving certification, the first for a marathon in the country, from the sport’s body immediately establishes the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon as a globally recognized and reputable event.

It serves as a testament to the marathon’s adherence to the highest international standards of organization, course measurement, safety, and athlete support.

State Minister for ICT Godfrey Kabyanga (centre), Equator Hikes Amos Wekesa (2nd left), Mercelino Bwesigye (6th right) from the Internal Affairs, UBL's Catherine Ndugua (5th right) pose with the representatives of the different sponsors after the press briefing at Sheraton Hotel. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

The marathon’s certification was confirmed early this month following a thorough assessment led by South African Garvin Wright an official from World Athletics who inspected, evaluated, and measured the route in Kasese last month.

The assessment focused on accurately measuring the marathon route, evaluating its layout, elevation changes, and other factors crucial to the race’s integrity.

Now featuring four categories – 42km, 21km,10km, and 5km – the marathon offers something for everyone, promoting healthy lifestyles, community engagement, and a field for proving athletic excellence.

UBL Managing Director Andrew Kilonzo addresses the press at Sheraton Hotel. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

According to the race director Julius Nkuraija, the 42 and 21km have all been adjusted to world standards. He said the marathon will this time start at the Equator and go towards Kasese town through the 21km route and back.

He said runners will have a lot of things to look out for as the route goes through the national park, near Crater Lakes, and the mountain ranges among other natural features.

“The route was designed to be both challenging and treating participants to an amazing experience. They get to embark on a scenic adventure that takes them alongside Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Equator, the historic Kilembe Mines, and more. It is an unforgettable experience and one that will leave you feeling satisfied with life,” he said. 

The certification was unveiled on Tuesday during a press briefing at Sheraton Hotel attended by sponsors' representatives; UBL Managing Director Andrew Kilonzo and Head of Beer Matilda Babuleka, Standard Chartered Bank’s Maggie Kigozi, CFAO Motors’ Isaac Tegule, Hima Cement’s Joan Kitawona, Equator Hikes’ Amos Wekesa, the State Minister for ICT Godfrey Kabyanga, Mercelino Bwesigye from the Internal Affairs, UBC’s Maurice Mugisha and representatives of the different running clubs in the country led by Team Matooke chairman Fred Lutaaya.

State Minister for ICT Godfrey Kabyanga addresses the press at Sheraton Hotel. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Kilonzo said they were very passionate about the marathon because one of their aims is to positively impact communities where they operate and are excited to showcase what the western part of the country can offer and the beauty of the Rwenzori marathon.

“We are honoured to have received the certification of the marathon. This recognition affirms our dedication to ensuring that this marathon meets international standards,” Kilonzo said.

“This is a milestone that not only signifies our commitment to excellence but also opens new doors for the event on a global stage. We are honoured to join a select group of globally certified race courses making this a pivotal moment in the journey of the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon,” he stated.

“We are confident the marathon will continue to provide athletes worldwide the unparalleled opportunity to compete and set records on a course that is recognized worldwide,”

He reiterated their commitment to their partnership with Equator Hikes and their dedication to supporting local businesses, community engagement, and the celebration of our country’s natural beauty.

Minister Kabyanga said the marathon was a component of a wider organisation the Theluji Rwenzori Festival which runs in August and comes to a climax with the Rwenzori Marathon.

He advised the organisers to ensure there is enough kit as more participants from Rotary and the Urban Authorities Association had already indicated they would participate after their other activities in Kasese around the same period.

“I’m happy that we are running for conservation and health, but we are also running for wealth and I’m happy that all the sponsors are investing in the event with all the money ending up in Kasese,” Kabyanga noted.

He assured of total security and good roads from what was there last year for this year’s run slated for August 24. He also encouraged the runners to come much earlier to enjoy other tourist attractions in the region.

Amos Wekesa of Equator Hikes and the founder of the marathon thanked the sponsors and the media for their efforts that have ensured the continued success of the run.

“When you have a certified route you can have the whole world here so we only need to improve on communication from the government,” Wekesa noted.

He said ten brand ambassadors of Nike, Puma, Adidas, and Asics including international journalists had confirmed to come for this year’s Rwenzori Marathon.

The Private Sector Foundation has joined this year’s run with a contribution of $50,000 (sh191m) to promote the event internationally.

Registration is now open on the official marathon website (www.rwenzorimarathon.com), with early bird tickets available for East African citizens and residents at sh50,000 and international runners at $50. Participants can expect an unforgettable experience as they traverse the certified course, showcasing the natural wonders of the Rwenzori region.