By KPC Sports Reporter
Elijah Mbaire and Agnes Mumbua Ndolo were crowned men’s and women’s champions at the fourth edition of the Betika Lukenya 10 Million Trees Marathon held on Saturday, in Kambu Town.
Mbaire delivered a thrilling performance in the men’s full marathon, clocking 2:16:44 to edge out Charles Munyua Njoki by a single second in one of the closest finishes in the event’s history.
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Njoki finished second in 2:16:45, while Dennis Koech came third in 2:17:00.
Reflecting on his victory, Mbaire credited a late-race surge for his triumph.
“I’m very thankful for this win. The race was very competitive, and after the 35km mark we were still four athletes together. At that point I decided to go all out and push the pace because I knew the finish would be very tight,” he said.
In the women’s race, Mumbua put on a commanding display to win in 2:42:56.
Fridah Chepkite Todepa finished second in 2:48:33, while Naomi Wambui Muriuki secured third place in 2:49:29.
The winners walked away with Ksh 500,000 each, while second-place finishers earned Ksh 200,000 and third-place athletes took home Ksh 100,000.
Prize money will be awarded up to the 10th position in each category.
In the half marathon, Zakariah Kirika Gacugu claimed the men’s title in 1:02:06 ahead of Leonard Kiprotich (1:02:21) and Peter Kiprop Rutoh (1:02:38).
Betty Chepkiror won the women’s race in 1:12:02, narrowly beating Phena Siyoi (1:12:03), with Ruth Mwihaki third in 1:12:25.
Betika Group CEO Mutua Mutava emphasized the broader impact of the event.
“We strongly believe in the power of sports to transform lives and create opportunities. Our continued support reflects our commitment to nurturing local talent and bringing communities together,” he said.
“Beyond the race, we are also focused on community impact through initiatives like the medical camp and sustainability efforts, including planting more than 2,000 trees.”
The event attracted over 200 athletes and featured 42km, 21km, 10km, and cycling races, including an 84km pro race and an under-23 42km category.
Beyond competition, the marathon reinforced its environmental mission, with 2,200 trees planted during the event, contributing to the ambitious 10 Million Trees initiative aimed at restoring forest cover in the Lukenya ecosystem.
