Francis Gimara, Chairman of the Gulu City Marathon, is confident that all loose ends have been tightened ahead of the second edition of the event happening on Saturday in Gulu.
The Kaunda Grounds will be a beehive of activity when the world descends on Gulu the run premised on celebrating culture and heritage.
Having had about 600 runners participating in last year’s first edition, organizers of the event looked to stretch that number to 1,000.
But by the time of writing this, up to 1,500 elite and recreational runners had registered to take part.
‘Initially we expected about 1,000 runners this year but we registered 1,500. We actually sold out with a couple of days to the event which is a testimony of the evolving running culture, a good sign that people care about their health, one of the aims the marathon wants to achieve,’ Gimara said at a presser held Wednesday morning at Kampala Club.
Gimara added that other aspects like security, course readiness, and the like have been taken care of and they’re good to go.
‘The course was assessed this year by Gavin Wright, one of the very few World Athletics accredited route measurers in Africa. He’s the very person who assessed the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon route in Kasese before it was accredited by World Athletics,’ Gimara stated.
The race will have a global timing system this year, which means that elite runners can qualify for major events by posting good times in Gulu.
With lifestyle diseases on the rise in Uganda, the marathon looks to provide yet another big platform for everyone to run as a way of curbing them.
Themed ‘Running for Culture and Heritage,’ the Gulu City Marathon will feature the 42 km full marathon, 21 km half marathon, 10 km, and 5 km fun and family runs.
All runners who complete their races will receive finisher medals as a celebration of their achievement.
As a way of giving back to the Community, the marathon wills continue with its CSR trajectory and 10 % of the event proceeds will go towards the Martin Aliker Youth Skilling Centre in Abole, Omoro District.
A medical camp has also been organized by Uganda Baati, one of the event’s sponsors and will offer free services like HIV testing, cancer screening, immunization and family planning to revellers.
‘The Gulu City Marathon addresses many issues and we are proud to be a partner. We believe it will also help spotlight Gulu’s growth, resilience, and rising appeal as a destination worthy exploring,’ said Jackie Tahakanizibwa, the Head of Corporate and External Affairs at Uganda Baati.
The run is also aimed at showcasing the resilience of Gulu, a place that was previously ravaged by war and made the headlines for the wrong reasons.
Tusker Lite, the event’s lead sponsor, will elevate the marathon after-party with a VIP experience featuring local and national artist performances, premium refreshments, and an unforgettable celebration atmosphere.
‘The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, which marked its fourth edition this year, has given us valuable experience and insight. We are now bringing that energy and expertise to the Gulu City Marathon,’ said Denise Nazzinda, the Tusker Lite Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Ltd.
‘We want to fuel experiences that celebrate individuality, progressiveness, and vibrant social energy.’