Athletics Kenya (AK) has asked county governments and corporate companies to support mountain and trail running.
AK Mountain Running chairman Peter Angwenyi said mountain and trail running help showcase Kenya's tourist attractions and tap talent.
“Mountain and trail running blends tourism, sports and environmental protection,” said Angwenyi.
He spoke as Nyandarua County committed to supporting the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series Aberdare Trail Run on August 24.
Governor Badilisha Kiarie reaffirmed Nyandarua’s unwavering commitment to co-hosting the event.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that the event remains iconic and well-organised. We will work with AK and other stakeholders to deliver a successful event,” said the Governor.
Angwenyi said the Aberdare Trail Run and Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) Mountain Run (September 7) will be the last local events before the third edition of the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Canfranc-Pirineos, Spain, between September 25 and 28.
“The local events will climax in Meru before we head to Spain, where we expect to defend our overall title,” said Angwenyi.
He said the annual Barng’etuny Mountain Run in Nandi will be changed to conform to international standards.
“We want to make an up-and-down race. From next season, it will start and finish at the same place,” added Angwenyi.
“The Barng’etuny Mountain Run is one of the biggest races in the country and is recognised by the World Mountain Running Association alongside Mt Longonot Trail Challenge."
Meanwhile, athletes who excelled at the Mt Longonot Trail Challenge and Barng’etuny Mountain Run have received their prize money after receiving a clean bill of health from the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK).
