By Karim Ssozi
The inaugural Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon that is slated for Saturday, September 3, 2022, in Kasese, has got a sh800m sponsorship package.
The announcement was made during a press conference at Meat Guy in Industrial Area, Kampala on August 11.
“This will not be a one-off. Tusker Lite has made a long-time commitment to ensure the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon grows into one of the biggest events of its nature on the continent and even the world,” Emmy Hashakimana, the Uganda Breweries Ltd marketing and innovations director, said.
The marathon was mooted with the aim of promoting sports tourism, healthy lifestyles, and highlighting climate change.
It seeks to draw world attention to the iconic Rwenzori Mountain ranges.
“I climbed the Rwenzori Mountains recently and the beauty is indescribable. It is out of this world. The marathon will help draw world attention to this resource and increase the tourism numbers,” said Equator Hikes director Amos Wekesa.
With about 2,000 running enthusiasts and professional athletes expected to trail-blaze the running tracks at the foot of the Rwenzori ranges, the marathon will present a new challenge to both Ugandan and foreign runners alike.
It will consist of a 42km full marathon, a 21km half marathon and 5km fun run.
Ordinary people are encouraged to take part in the 5km run and explore the scenic beauty that Kasese has to offer while at it.
Wekesa announced a sh42m prize purse for the marathon runners courtesy of Standard Chartered Bank.
Sh5m, sh4m, sh3m, sh2m, and sh1m await the top five winners in the 42km full marathon for both men and women.
The top three male and female athletes in the 21km half-marathon will bag sh3m, sh2m, and sh1m respectively.
Tusker Lite has also organised a big concert after the marathon, which is more reason for people to get out of town on top of other fun activities like hikes, bird watching and boat rides on Kazinga Channel.
