Record turnout at third Rwenzori Marathon highlights Kasese’s scenic beauty and boosts tourism

The 3rd edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, held in Kasese, saw an impressive turnout with over 3,700 participants from 34 countries. The event, which blends athletic excellence with the stunning natural landscapes of the Rwenzori Mountains, was officially flagged off by State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, at 6 am.

The marathon featured multiple race categories, including the 42km, 21km, 10km, and 5km races, along with a special category for wheelchair participants. The 42km race, the event’s main attraction, was won by Abel Chelangat in the men’s category and Emily Chebet in the women’s category. Chelangat finished with a time of 02:14:59, while Chebet clocked in at 02:42:08, with both athletes claiming the top prize of Shs 10 million.

In the men’s 42km race, Allan Andiema and Leonard Chemonges secured second and third places respectively. In the women’s race, Ruth Cheptoyek and Scarlet Chemos took second and third places. The winners of the 21km half-marathon were Abel Chebet in the men’s category and Rebbeca Chelangat in the women’s category, each receiving Shs 7 million for their victories.

The event not only celebrated athletic prowess but also served as a significant boost to local tourism, showcasing Kasese’s breathtaking scenery to a global audience. Roads in the region were improved to accommodate the influx of participants and visitors, and local hotels expanded to meet the increased demand, revitalizing the town’s economy.

Ogwang praised the event’s role in promoting tourism and urged the Ministry of Tourism to leverage such sports events to further enhance Uganda’s global profile. He noted the marathon’s growing impact, from its inaugural edition in 2022 with 800 participants, to 2023’s 2,000 participants, and now reaching 3,700 participants in its third year.

Amos Wekesa, Director of Equator Hikes, the event’s organizers, expressed a clear vision for the future. “The goal is to elevate the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon to international prominence, attracting elite athletes and adventure seekers from across the globe. The long-term benefits for Kasese and Uganda are immense, from boosting tourism to driving economic growth,” Wekesa stated.

As the event continues to grow, it brings not only global attention to the Kasese region but also significant infrastructure development, positioning the marathon as a key driver of economic and social progress in Uganda.