The 2025 Gulu City Marathon delivered strong competition and big crowds on Saturday at Kaunda Grounds, with close to 1,500 runners taking part in the second edition of the event.
The men’s 42 kilometre race saw Allan Andiema retain his crown after finishing in 2:17:16. It continues a steady rise for the runner who first broke through when he won the main event at the inaugural Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon in 2022. Anthony Ayeko followed in 2:19:34, while Isaac Masai placed third in 2:21:53. Michael Kiprotich came fourth in 2:23:43, and Simon Kasyate closed the top five in 2:30:58.
In the women’s 42 kilometre field, Joy Roberts claimed the title with a time of 3:25:53. Joan Chebet clocked 3:43:11 for second place, Phanice Chemutai finished in 3:47:45, Scarlet Chemos in 3:48:30, and Maurine Koech in 3:54:46.
The half marathon produced a strong run from Peter Akwech, who took the men’s race in 01:03:03. Evas Nasasira won the women’s race in 01:15:43. In the 10 kilometre events, victories went to Laban Kibet in 00:31:06 and Farida Donia in 00:41:22. The 5 kilometre races were won by Genesis Androa in 00:24:14 and Petwa Abulo in 00:26:46.
The wheelchair races were won by Richard Ocira and Polline Acayo.
This year’s edition rewarded athletes with a mix of cash, air tickets, and assorted gifts. After a raffle draw for the leading performers in each race, Uganda Airlines handed out three tickets to Farida Donya, Evas Nasasira, and Peter Akwech. The winners of the full marathon each earned three million shillings, the half marathon champions received one million five hundred thousand shillings, and the wheelchair category winners each took home one million shillings. All top finishers also received gift hampers.
Event Steering Committee Chair Francis Gimara praised the turnout and support that helped the marathon build on its debut edition. “I want to thank all the participants, sponsors, and key partners for the positive response towards having a successful Gulu City Marathon for the second-year running. 2026 will be bigger and even much better,” Gimara said.
Festivities continued into the evening with a performance by Azawi as Tusker Lite hosted an after party with VIP hospitality. Tusker Lite Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Ltd, Denise Nazzinda, said the event fits well with the brand’s direction. “Supporting marathons aligns naturally with Tusker Lite’s identity as a low carb beer that promotes active and responsible lifestyles. The success of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon in Kasese has set a strong foundation for us, and we are committed to carrying that same energy to race events across the country. Gulu has lived up to that spirit, giving us yet another truly memorable experience,” Nazzinda noted.
Several dignitaries attended and took part in flag offs, including Ambassador Olara Otunnu, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Hon. Norbert Mao, UPDF Reserve Force Commander Lt. Gen. Charles Otema Awany, and Gulu City Mayor His Worship Fred Okwonga.
In the build up to race day, runners and visitors enjoyed Acholi cultural displays, culinary exhibitions, dance performances, and a medical camp supported by Uganda Baati.
Organizers have confirmed that the third edition of the marathon will take place on December 5, 2026, with preparations already underway. Sponsors supporting this year’s event included Equity Bank, Uganda Airlines, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation, CFAO Mobility, Suzuki, the Uganda Communications Commission, Krystal Water, the National Information Technology Authority, the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and Swangz Avenue.
