Vincent Langat emerged victorious at the Ghetto Run elite marathon on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Langat clocked an impressive time of 28:30.46, leaving his competitors, Gilbert Kiprotich and Jonathan Korir, to settle for second and third places with times of 28:47.52 and 28:55.50, respectively.
In the women’s elite race, Viola Chepngeno delivered a stellar performance, winning with a time of 32:02.11. Maurine Jemutai and Diano Chpkorir followed closely, securing the second and third spots with times of 32:21.08 and 32:47.63, respectively.
The marathon, now in its second year, saw more than 150 athletes traverse a challenging 10-kilometer route through the informal settlements of Kawangware Muslim, Mau Mau, Kangemi Gichagi, Kangemi Thiongo Road, and N-Market, culminating at Kabete National Polytechnic.
Participants in the top five positions in both the men’s and women’s categories were rewarded handsomely, with prizes ranging from KES 100,000 for the winners to KES 20,000 for the fifth-place finishers.
Organized by the Community Relations Foundation, the Ghetto Run aims to promote peace, unity, and positive change within informal settlements.
Key partners supporting the marathon included Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, Athletics Kenya, Angulya Travel, SHOFCO, TEGLA Loroupe Peace Foundation, Eagle Health Clinic, Kabete National Polytechnic, Standard Group, and Kenya Police.
Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, represented by Ben Mwoyonyo the Constituency Office Manager, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering community spirit and providing opportunities for local athletes.
“Events like the Ghetto Run not only showcase our athletes’ talents but also bring our community together, promoting peace and unity. I’m proud to be a part of this transformative event,” he said.
In addition to the marathon, a comprehensive medical camp was held at Kabete National Polytechnic, providing essential health services to the local community.
Over 2,000 residents received medical attention, including first aid, doctor consultations, health education, eye services, dental services, and cancer screenings.
AI technology was also utilized to enhance medical consultations, and some residents identified as needing long-term care were granted a one-year NHIF membership.
The medical camp was made possible through the support of M-Pesa Foundation, Zuri Health, and Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital.