By Njeri Irungu.
The 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon came to a triumphant close with winners receiving KES 12.5 million in cash prizes at an awards ceremony held at Standard Chartered’s Nairobi Headquarters. Kurgat Kimeli and Gladys Chemutai emerged as champions in the 42KM men’s and women’s categories, each taking home KES 2 million.
Kurgat completed the marathon in 2:13:05, while Chemutai crossed the finish line at 2:31:52. The event, which drew over 25,000 participants from more than 90 nationalities, continues to cement its place as a premier international race.
Standard Chartered’s Futuremakers initiative was a key beneficiary of the marathon, with a cheque for KES 43 million handed over to support youth empowerment through education, employability, and entrepreneurship, particularly targeting women and persons with disabilities.
The men’s runners-up were Dominic Kipkirui (2:13:13) and Peter Kwemoi Ndorobo (2:13:14), both receiving KES 1 million each. In the women’s race, Caroline Koech (2:35:00) and Joy Kemuma (2:36:06) secured second and third places, respectively, earning KES 1 million and KES 500,000 each.
In the 21KM categories, Vincent Mutai (1:03:27) and Gladys Koech (1:03:27) claimed victory, earning KES 300,000 each.
This year’s marathon saw a record 206 elite athletes, a significant increase from 73 in the previous year. Joyce Kibe, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand, and Marketing at Standard Chartered, highlighted the event’s growing stature, noting that the marathon’s competitive edge provides a platform for athletes to showcase their talent on the international stage. She expressed optimism that the 22nd edition would surpass this year’s success.
Penina Wahome, CEO of the Anti-Doping Agency Kenya (ADAK), reiterated the organization’s commitment to fair competition, emphasizing the importance of adherence to anti-doping regulations to promote a clean and fair competitive environment.
Participation by persons with disabilities rose significantly, with 153 participants compared to 119 in 2023. John Wambua (1:29:30) and Caroline Wanjira (2:07:36) emerged winners of the 21KM Wheelchair Race, each earning KES 300,000.
The 10KM race attracted the largest number of participants, with 10,331 runners, up from 9,405 in 2023. The top five nationalities represented were Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, China, and India.
Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei emphasized the event’s alignment with the World Athletics sustainability agenda. He highlighted the marathon’s role in environmental stewardship and social equity, stressing that sports are a powerful catalyst for positive change.
In partnership with Athletics Kenya, the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon earned the prestigious World Athletics Road Race Label last year, elevating its status on the global athletic stage.
The 22nd edition of the marathon is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, 2025. Organizers are optimistic about surpassing this year’s success, with expectations for more elite athletes, increased participation, and enhanced inclusivity.
