By KPC Sports Reporter
Samson Lemayan and Lydia Simiyu emerged victorious in the 26th edition of the Lewa Safari Marathon held on Saturday at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, overcoming one of Kenya’s most demanding marathon courses.
Lemayan, a ranger at Samburu National Reserve, successfully defended his men’s 42km title after clocking 2:27:04. He finished ahead of Victor Miano, who posted 2:28:08, while Nehemiah Kimaru took third place in 2:32:38.
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The victory marked Lemayan’s second consecutive triumph in the prestigious conservation-themed race.
“This is my third year participating in this race and my second time winning it. I have been preparing for this race since last year, and I am happy to have successfully defended my title,” said Lemayan.
“The Lewa Safari Marathon is more challenging than many other races because of its tough terrain, so winning here means a lot to me as I continue preparing for upcoming races.”
In the women’s 42km race, Kenya Wildlife Service officer Lydia Simiyu from Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, claimed the title after crossing the finish line in 2:50:39. Lydia Nyansikera finished second in 2:56:41, while Gladys Otero completed the podium places in 3:07:40.
For Simiyu, the victory was particularly special as it came on her debut appearance at the event.
“This is my first time participating in the Lewa Safari Marathon, and winning it is a major milestone in my athletics career,” she said.
“It is one of the races I have always wanted to compete in because of its impact on conservation and the surrounding communities, as well as its reputation as one of the toughest marathon courses. I would like to thank the organisers and sponsors, including Safaricom, for making this event such a success.”
In the 21km half marathon, Michael Kamau and Mercy Nelima claimed the men’s and women’s titles after posting times of 1:06:36 and 1:19:02, respectively.
Justine Lelintan finished second in the men’s race in 1:07:59, followed by Simon Saidimu in 1:08:30. In the women’s category, Doreen Kendi secured second place in 1:23:09, while Caroline Waithira came third in 1:26:12.
The Executive 10km race was won by Wilson Moyer and Jessica Baillie in the men’s and women’s categories respectively.
Winners of both the 42km and 21km races received KES 150,000, while first runners-up earned KES 80,000 and second runners-up pocketed KES 60,000 each.
M-PESA Foundation Trustee Michael Joseph hailed the event’s enduring impact beyond sport.
“Twenty-six years of supporting this marathon reflect our long-standing commitment to creating meaningful and lasting impact in communities, extending far beyond wildlife conservation,” he said.
“We remain committed to supporting this noble cause and ensuring it continues to deliver even greater impact in the years ahead.”
More than 1,400 participants from Kenya and across the world took part in this year’s marathon.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy CEO Rob Macaire said the event continues to drive conservation, healthcare, education and sustainable livelihoods for neighbouring communities.
“Today, we celebrate not only the achievements of those who crossed the finish line, but also the lasting impact this event continues to make through conservation, education, healthcare and sustainable livelihoods,” said Macaire.
The marathon was sponsored by Safaricom and Huawei, alongside partners including Amref Health Africa, Kenya Red Cross, Atlas Towers, Safarilink, ICEA Lion and Tropical Heat.
