Preps for Nairobi City Marathon in top gear - Korir

Race director Barnaba Korir has confirmed that everything is on track, assuring both participants and stakeholders of a well-planned event.

He called on more professional athletes to register early, particularly those interested in the 21km half marathon and the 42km full marathon, to avoid any last-minute issues.

“Preparations are on track. We’re urging all athletes, especially the professional athletes, to finalize their registrations especially the 21km and marathon to avoid last minute issues but for the 10km expressway run it is closed,” said Korir.

This year’s marathon carries the theme “I Love Nairobi,” a celebration of the city’s energy, hustle, and rich culture. It offers participants a chance to run through Kenya’s capital and express their love for the “Green City under the Sun,” With 78 nationalities represented, the marathon continues to grow as a major international event.

“So far we have got 78 nationalities registered for the event, largely from the United States, China and Britain who have already registered alongside corporate bodies.”

Korir also highlighted that the race aligns with Athletics Kenya’s broader goals, which include bidding for more continental and global competitions.

He revealed that preparations are already underway for Kenya’s bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships.

"Athletics Kenya President appointed a committee to look into the bidding of the world championships for 2029 and we are looking forward to hosting other bigger events as we have the capacity and resources to do so and I hope Kenyans should realise the potential we have as a country to tap into our sporting talents,” noted Korir.

The 2025 edition also features an impressive prize pool that cements its status as one of the most lucrative races in the region.

Winners of the 42km full marathon will walk away with KSh. 3.5 million, KSh. 2.25 million for second place, and KSh. 1.5 million for third. In the half marathon, the top three will earn KSh. 150,000, KSh. 80,000, and KSh. 50,000 respectively.

The 10km Expressway Run offers KSh. 100,000, KES 60,000, and KSh. 40,000 for the top three finishers.

The day’s program will begin with the marathon at 6:45am, followed by the half marathon at 8:15am, and the 10km Expressway Run at 10:00am.

The 4km Fun Run kicks off at 11:00am, while the awards ceremony for all races is scheduled for 11:10am.

Entertainment performances will begin at 11:30am, with the final runner expected to cross the finish line by 12:22pm, marking the official end of all running activities by 12:30pm.

In a bid to support runners aiming for specific finish times, the marathon will also feature a dedicated team of experienced Kenyan pacers for the 42km race.

These pacers, holding visible colored flags, will help guide runners toward target finish times ranging from 2 hours 59 minutes to 5 hours.

Royal Media Services Limited has been confirmed as the official media partner for the 2025 Nairobi City Marathon, ensuring extensive coverage and national visibility for this premier athletics event.

In the meantime,  Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon try to break the record mile under for minute the chairman congratulated the Faith for the attempt saying she is a great role model to the upcoming athletes and the society as a whole .

“She is role model to many in the country. Even if she didn’t achieve the target, she is still a very distinguished star that many will still look up to. I congratulate her for her boldness and achievements so far.  She has done well and we look forward to more success from her,” he averred.

Additional reporting by Brian Ouma