Sisibo International Marathon Set to Elevate Eldoret’s Global Sporting Profile

Eldoret, long regarded as the cradle of world-class distance running, is preparing to host a new flagship athletics event aimed at further strengthening Kenya’s position on the global sporting map.

Plans are in advanced stages for the launch of the Sisibo International Marathon, an ambitious road race expected to attract elite athletes from across the world while boosting sports tourism and talent development in the North Rift region.

The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (National Olympic Committee of Kenya) Vice President Barnaba Korir on Monday led a high-level planning meeting in Eldoret, where stakeholders reviewed progress and discussed logistics ahead of the inaugural event scheduled for September 2026.

Korir noted that the marathon is part of broader efforts to expand Kenya’s athletics calendar beyond traditional races, creating more opportunities for elite competition while nurturing emerging talent. He said Eldoret’s global reputation in athletics makes it an ideal host city for a world-class marathon.

The County Government of Uasin Gishu has also expressed strong support for the initiative. Chief Officer for Youth Affairs and Sports CPA Victorine Kapkiai said the county is committed to promoting programmes that enhance Eldoret’s international visibility through sports.

She added that the Sisibo International Marathon aligns with the county’s long-term development agenda of positioning Eldoret as a leading sports tourism destination while empowering young athletes and supporting community-based sports development programmes.

The event is being spearheaded by international sports marketing and event management firm Golazo, which is leading technical planning, route design, and global marketing strategies to ensure the marathon meets international standards and attracts top-tier participation.

Organisers have indicated that although the event is still in its planning phase, it is already being positioned as one of the highest-paying road races in Kenya, a factor expected to attract elite athletes from leading running nations.

The marathon is expected to build on Eldoret’s rich athletics legacy, a town that has produced world champions, Olympic medallists, and record holders over several decades. Stakeholders believe the event will further strengthen Kenya’s dominance in long-distance running while opening new commercial opportunities within the sports sector.

Sports development remains a key pillar in the development agenda of Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii, whose administration has prioritized investment in talent identification, training infrastructure, and international sports partnerships.

Once launched, the Sisibo International Marathon is expected to become an annual fixture on the global athletics calendar, contributing to economic growth, tourism promotion, and youth empowerment in the region.