“From Rift to Highlands: Eldoret City Marathon to Seal Historic Deal with Great Ethiopian Run”
By Josphat Kebut
The streets of Eldoret, fondly known as the City of Champions, is set to host more than just a race this Sunday. A new chapter in East African athletics is about to be written — and it starts with a handshake.
In a groundbreaking move, the Eldoret City Marathon is expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with one of Africa’s largest road race, the 10KM Great Ethiopian Run, marking the start of a transformative partnership in regional athletics.
According to Race Director Moses Tanui, the official signing will take place on Saturday, just a day before the 6th edition of the Eldoret City Marathon.
“We are honored to host a delegation of 30 Ethiopian athletes, officials and guests who will witness and grace this special event,” said Tanui.
“This is not a rivalry,” he emphasized with a smile, “this is a friendship.” He added, “Kenya and Ethiopia share more than medals — we share a mission to uplift East African athletics. With Tanzania and Uganda also joining us, this could be the beginning of a united front that boosts talent across the region.”
ELDORET CITY MARATHON PREPARATIONS
As the city gears up for Sunday’s Eldoret City Marathon Tanui confirmed that
“it’s all systems go.” With over 1,000 athletes registered so far, organizers expect a final surge before the midnight deadline on Thursday, April 24.
He urged athletes not to wait until the last minute.
“We are complying with Athletics Kenya regulations, so there will be no registration beyond Thursday.”
Tanui, who etched his name in history as the first man to run a half marathon in under an hour, explained that the team needs ample time to prepare logistics and finalize the race list.
BIB numbers will be issued on Saturday at Eldoret Sports Club, and athletes must collect them in person confirming that there will be no giving out of BIBS on race day.
The elite field this year is packed with talent.
All eyes will be on Enock Onchari, fresh off a blistering 2:05:20 finish in Barcelona, as he locks horns with Felix Kipsang Mutai, the runner-up at last year’s Eldoret City Marathon.
On the women’s side, reigning champion Emily Jepkemoi returns to defend her crown and dominate once more on the streets of Eldoret.
With fierce competition, international collaboration, and a shared vision for the future of East African athletics, the 2025 Eldoret City Marathon is more than just a race — it’s a movement.
