Elite and untested athletes will be facing off at Sunday’s inaugural Iten international marathon that will be held in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County.
While launching the race on Monday morning, former London marathon champion Joyciline Jepkosgei, who is also the race ambassador urged top athletes to register and compete in one of the biggest races in the north rift.
“I want to encourage elite and upcoming athletes to come and compete at this race since such races is where they started across the world,” said the former world half marathon record holder.
Sunday's race is expected to attract a huge number of athletes, including those who train along the Eldoret-Iten-Kabarnet road.
The theme of these year's race is promoting climate resilient practices to foster economic growth, enhance food security and environmental conservation.
Iten was in 2019 awarded the World Athletics Heritage Plague for its immense contribution to athletics development in the world.
Governor Wesley Korir said the race will be used to tap and nurture talent that will in the longer term become world beaters.
"The race is part of the empowerment for young athletes. This is a platform for them to showcase their talent. This is an opportunity for them since we have never hosted a major marathon here," said Korir.
Athletes will be competing in the main 42km elite while the 2km fan race will be for corporates.
Registration for individuals wishing to participate is ongoing. Korir has promised to pay for 40 young athletes from within the county.
Elite and upcoming athletes will fork Sh 1000 for registration while corporate teams will part with Sh50,000.
Korir estimated that 5000 athletes, local and international train in Iten daily to its favourable condition to run.
