The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first Ugandan marathon to receive certification from World Athletics. This prestigious recognition was announced during a press conference held at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala on Tuesday.
World Athletics, the global governing body for athletics, confirmed the marathon’s certification on Wednesday, April 3, following a meticulous assessment process led by Garvin Wright, an official from World Athletics. Wright, one of Africa’s top-tier (Grade A) World Athletics route measurers, concluded the evaluation of the marathon route in Kasese on Sunday, March 24th.
The certification process focused on accurately measuring the marathon route, assessing its layout, elevation changes, and other crucial factors ensuring the race’s integrity. With four categories – 42km, 21km, 10km, and 5km – the marathon caters to diverse participants, promoting healthy lifestyles, community engagement, and athletic excellence.
Andrew Kilonzo, Managing Director of Uganda Breweries Limited, expressed his excitement about the certification, highlighting the positive impact the marathon has on the local communities and Uganda’s tourism sector. Kilonzo emphasized the economic benefits brought by the marathon, citing a study by Makerere University’s Tourism Research & Development Centre, which revealed a UGX 3.5 billion injection into Kasese’s economy during the 2023 edition.
Matilda Babuleka, UBL’s Head of Beer, expressed pride in Tusker Lite’s association with the marathon, stating that achieving international standards elevates the event’s profile. She emphasized the marathon’s role in promoting healthy living, community engagement, and showcasing Uganda’s natural beauty.
With its certification, the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon 42 km route joins a select group of globally certified race courses, providing athletes worldwide with unparalleled opportunities to compete and set records.
Julius Nkuraija, the course director, shared his excitement for this significant milestone, highlighting the challenging yet scenic nature of the route, which takes participants alongside Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Equator, and the historic Kilembe Mines.
The eagerly anticipated third edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon is scheduled for Saturday, August 24th in Kasese. Registration is now open on the official marathon website, offering early bird tickets for East African citizens and residents at 50,000 UGX and international runners at 50 USD.
