Standard Chartered is aiming to achieve World Athletics Label status in this year’s Nairobi Marathon, which would bring global recognition if any race records are broken.
The 20th edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon will be held on October 29 and is expected to attract over 25,000 local and international athletes.
One of the key changes implemented this year is a modification of the route, with the goal of aligning the race with globally recognized standards. This includes adjusting start times, certifying distances, and improving timekeeping measures.
“We already have over 5,000 registrations for this year, and obtaining World Athletics Label rating would be beneficial as it would attract elite international athletes to the marathon and enhance its competitiveness,” said George Kariuki, a representative from the Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon Marshall.
The marathon will take place at the Southern Bypass, with the Uhuru Gardens serving as the venue.
According to David Lawrence, Associate Principal Marketing at Standard Chartered Bank, the marathon day will feature seven race categories: the 42-kilometre men’s and women’s races, men’s and women’s half marathon, men’s and women’s wheelchair half marathon, 10-kilometre races, a 10-kilometre CEO’s Challenge, a five-kilometre Family Fun Run, and the Corporate Relay Challenge.
To ensure fairness, chip technology will be used to detect cheaters, streamline registration, and enable athletes to track their performance in the competition.
David Lawrence also mentioned that the race supports the bank’s sustainability agenda and raises funds for the Futuremakers program, a community initiative aimed at addressing inequality and promoting economic inclusion for young people in local communities.
