Former Safaricom Madoka Half Marathon Champion, Panuel Mkungo will run his first competitive 42km race this Sunday. Mkunga who hails from Taita Taveta is also a previous Philadelphia 21 km champion and will take to the field alongside 2,000 athletes.
“I’m looking forward to the race and to put on a good showing. I’m confident in the preparations I have made and even though I know the competition will be stiff, I’ve come to give my very best and to represent the Coast region as best as I can”, Said Mkungo.
The Eldoret City Marathon was developed to identify young and upcoming runners by giving them a platform to showcase their talent. The organizers are also using this year’s marathon to raise awareness about climate change through a tree planting initiative as the world marks World Environment Day on Sunday.
The total prize money for the podium finishers is KES 18 million including KES 3.5 million for the winners, KES 1.5 million for 2nd placed finishers, and KES 1 million for those who finish third. In addition, the top 20 finishers will all various get cash prizes while leading Telco Safaricom who are among the sponsors will provide phones and airtime for the winners.