The inaugural Kisumu City 21km Run race will be held on September 24 in Kisumu.

The race will feature 21km and 10km for elite runners, 5km race family fun run, and 5km tricycle race for people with disabilities.

Speaking at Kisumu International Airport during the launch of the event,  Athletics Kenya Nyanza South Secretary Thomas Ongwacho said winners in both the men’s and women’s 21km race will each receive Sh250, 000.

“According to Athletics Kenya road running regulations, winners of 21km races must get at least Sh250,000. However, we shall decide on the awards for the rest of the top performers,” said Ongwacho.

The top 10 athletes in each event will be awarded.  There will also be medals, trophies and certificates, Ongwacho added.

The race will start and finish at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports ground while the fun run will end at Kisumu Impala Sanctuary. Ongwacho said they expect at least 5, 000 elite and fun runners.

He said registration started on Tuesday and will close at 8 am on September 24.

The registration fee is Sh2, 100. The registration points are at United Mall, Huduma Centre, Lake Bain Mall, Kisumu International Airport, Mega City Mall, West End Mall, Quickmart Supermarkets, Khetias Supermarket among others.

“We, however, encourage athletes to register online,” Ongwacho addedKisumu County Executive Member for Trade, Tourism, Industry and Marketing Farida Salim when she launched the race

Kisumu County Executive Member for Trade, Tourism, Industry and Marketing Farida Salim officially launched the race and the registration.

Also present was Athletics Kenya Nyanza South chairman Joseph Ochieng. Ochieng appealed to the county to make the run an annual event.

“As AK, we are ready to give you the necessary support to make the event a success. We want to have a memorable and enjoyable event,” said Ochieng, who is a World Athletics race walking judge.

Ochieng said they are keen to rekindle the spirit of athletics in Kisumu. He said it is in Kisumu where Kenyan athletics began 70 years ago before spreading to Kisii and Rift Valley.

Salim said the event is part of the several activities organised by the county to commemorate the UN World Tourism Day. Kisumu County have organised a Tourism Week from September 23 to 27. The event seeks to promote Kisumu Greening Initiative, she added.

“This will not just be about the race. It’s a celebration of community and healthy living, connecting with friends and making friends,” she noted. She also urged Kisumu county athletes to start preparations for the event.