Iten, a town known globally for being a hub of top runners, is scheduled to host the first-ever Iten international marathon on Sunday, December 18, 2022.
The high-altitude training base that has produced a huge number of world-beaters will see athletes line up for the inaugural event.
According to the organizers, preparations are already underway for the world-class marathon that is set to be run in a high altitude with an elevation of 2400m.
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“It is intended to provide an opportunity for optimal talent exposure to both local and international athletes in the Athletics/Iconic town of Iten,” read part of the statement from the organizers.
The theme of the event is to promote climate-resilient practices to enhance food security, environmental conservation, and economic growth.
Elgeyo Marakwet is one of the counties in Kenya that has been affected by deforestation in the past few years, thus leading to unfavorable conditions for agricultural practices.
Some of the sponsors of the race include the County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet and a local bank.
Iten has produced many record-breaking athletes including 800m world record holders David Lekuta Rudisha and Mary Keitany.
2022 World Athletics Championships gold medalist Emmanuel Korir as well as Florence Kiplagat, Felix Kandie, and Amos Kiprop also train in Iten.
Over 1,000 athletes, both upcoming and elite ones train in the serene locality every day.
Runners from other parts of the globe including China, Japan, the United States, and most European nations have also pitched their camps in the locality.
In 2019, the popular town was awarded the prestigious World Athletics Heritage plaque award due to its contribution to the growth of the sport.