Athletes compete in the Meru University mountain run aimed at celebrating wellness and environmental conservation /ALICE WAITHERA
The Kenya Defence Forces athletes showcased their dominance in the just-concluded Meru University of Science and Technology mountain run, scooping top honours in both the men’s and women’s 14-kilometre races.
Michael Selelo clinched first place in the men’s 14-kilometre race followed closely by fellow KDF officers Shadrack Korir and Josphat Tuwei, who finished second and third respectively.
Speaking after his win, Selelo praised the event’s unique blend of sport, charity and conservation, saying it was more than just a race.
“The MUST Mountain Run has carved out a niche that not only uplifts athletes but also inspires hope for students who dream of a better future,” he noted.
The university’s Vice Chancellor Prof Romanus Odhiambo emphasised that the event was aimed at not just promoting athletics but supporting needy students.
“About 30 per cent of our students struggle to afford school fees and basic necessities. Funds raised will be invested in a special endowment account to support these vulnerable students. This marks the beginning of an annual tradition that we hope will continue to grow," he said.
Echoing these sentiments, University Council chairman Prof James Kanya noted that the event aligns with the competency-based education goals, which aim to integrate sports science into university curricula by 2029.
“MUST is positioning itself as a pioneer in sports and environmental education. The Marimba Campus, with its unique mountainous terrain, is set to become a hub for outdoor recreation and athletic training,” Kanya said.
Athletics Kenya Mountain Running Chairman Peter Angwenyi commended the university for organising a well-coordinated event.
“Athletics Kenya is committed to supporting this annual event to nurture talent while promoting education,” Angwenyi said.
Winners in the race took home Sh200,000, while the second and third place finishers received Sh150,000 and Sh100,000 respectively.
In the 8-kilometre category, winners bagged Sh40,000, Sh30,000 and Sh20,000 for the first, second and third positions.
In the women’s category, Gladys Sangol, also a KDF officer, emerged victorious. She was trailed by Regina Wambui from Nairobi in second place and Nakuru’s Jedidah Chepekemoi in third.
South Imenti MP Shadrack Mwiti lauded the initiative, pledging continued support from local leaders and the community.
Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi also applauded the revival of the Marimba Campus.
“It brings pride to our region and shows the potential of this campus. We look forward to its growth into a full-fledged university," Murungi said.
