Athletes in action during the seventh edition of the Kass Marathon
David Okeyo, vice president Athletics Kenya has called upon sponsors to increase their packages when dealing with athletics events in Kenya on Wednesday, Nairobi.
Speaking during the launch of Kass marathon, the VP said “we appreciate the sponsorship packages currently but I believe we can do better. We at AK, would like to improve the lives and welfare of our athletes, these runners should be able to earn a decent living from the money they earn from our local races, they don’t have to rush abroad in order to make money,” a determined Okeyo also emphasized on the importance of athletics in marketing Kenya as a tourist destination in his conclusion.
5000 meters, Helsinki gold medalist Benjamin Limo assured Kass marathon participants of a great race when he said, “we are planning a great event that will cut across two counties. We will include guys from Keiyo region in our plans because I am the one certified to check and confirm the routes,” said the local organizing committee chairman.
In support was Julius Lameon “this marathon will have a chip from France to ensure that athletes don’t cheat and also to make the race clean, they will be tested according to the world anti-doping regulations and standards,” added the organizer.
The eighth edition of Kass marathon will be held on16th November, starting and finishing in Eldoret town. The event will see runners of the 42 km category cut through Nandi County and later Uasin Gishu as the other categories will include family fan events, 5km and 10km races.
The race which attracted 5000 participants before will have Male and female Winners of the 42km category pocket a staggering 1.5 million Kenya shillings. The sponsorship deals of 8.5 million Kenya shillings will also ensure that winners in all categories will be prized well financially. The marathon will close its doors of registration on 10th November.
Author: Shadrack Andenga Odinga