Now in its 24th year, the Lewa Safari Marathon is one of the world’s most breath-taking races, notorious for its challenging yet captivating terrain and incredible wildlife experiences. Voted as one of the top ten races to run in your life by Runner’s World, the Marathon is an event on countless bucket lists.
Life on earth continues to face unprecedented threats, and as we increasingly retreat into lives lived online, the Lewa Safari Marathon is an opportunity to make a change. Break free, run wild, breathe nature and make a positive impact on the wildlife and communities of northern Kenya and beyond. This year participants are encouraged to ‘Ditch the Desk’ and connect with nature instead as they follow a route across savannah plains, along river banks and through acacia woodland.
The annual event has hosted runners of all abilities for almost two and a half decades, from elite professionals like Marathon World Record Holder Eliud Kipchoge, to amateur runners and walkers alike.
The World’s fastest marathon runner and Lewa Ambassador, Eliud Kipchoge said; “To me, a running world is a happy world. We are all part of the human family and we must keep strong and stay fit for our wellbeing. By running together, we can also conserve our environment, empower our communities, take care of our wildlife and support those at Lewa working for a future for us all”
Headline sponsored by telecommunication giants Safaricom and Huawei, the Marathon continues to be a force for good.
“We are proud to be part of this noble cause as we run to create awareness and take action to conserve our wildlife. We have been part of Lewa Safari Marathon’s journey of success since its inception in 2000. Today, we are proud to extend our partnership as we sponsor the event for KES 10 million. The event means a lot to us as a company because we aim to support the growth and development of sports talents, while conserving the country’s environment and wildlife.” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO, Safaricom.
Sheng Kaifu, Deputy CEO, Huawei shared, “Huawei is delighted to have supported the Lewa Safari Marathon for the past 16 years. The conservancy is home to some of the rarest wildlife and we know through our support and that of Safaricom, a difference has been made in preserving these iconic species for future generations as well as the surrounding communities”
The Lewa Safari Marathon is not just a personal challenge. This unique event has supported conservation projects across Kenya for over 20 years. By taking part, every single participant plays a huge role in helping local communities and raising awareness of the threats facing Africa’s incredible biodiversity.
Reflecting on the event, Mike Watson, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy CEO said, “As we face unprecedented threats to our planet, it is essential that we take action to protect our wildlife and their habitats. The Lewa Safari Marathon is not only an opportunity to challenge yourself and connect with nature, but it is also a way to make a positive impact on the communities and wildlife of northern Kenya and beyond. I encourage everyone take advantage of this unique opportunity to disconnect from our screens and connect with nature on June 24th, in Kenya’s most spectacular wildlife conservancy.”
Since its inception in 2000 the race has raised over $8 million dollars in support of conservation and community initiatives throughout Kenya. Nearly $4 million dollars have been invested in the direct protection of endangered species, other wildlife and their habitats.
