Kasese Municipality, Uganda – On Saturday, September 2, 2023, the picturesque landscape of Kasese Municipality was the backdrop for the second edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon. This year’s marathon witnessed Ugandan athletes dominating the 42-kilometer main race.
In a thrilling display of endurance and determination, Vitalis Kwemoi secured the gold medal in the male category, crossing the finish line with an impressive time of 2 hours, 17 minutes, and 21 seconds. Benard Cheptoch, narrowly missing the top spot, claimed silver with a time of 2:17:22, while Shetrack Kimaiyo secured the bronze in 2:17:37.
The female category saw Viola Chemos Munerya deliver a standout performance, clinching the gold with an outstanding time of 2 hours, 49 minutes, and 3 seconds. Rosina Jepkosgei Kiboino followed closely, taking the silver medal with a time of 2:50:32, while Priscilla Chelengat secured the bronze in 2:52:01.
Munerya, a 30-year-old member of the Arua Athletics Club, expressed her joy and credited her meticulous training for her victory, stating, “I trained well prior to the marathon. I am so happy for this victory, my first win in a major marathon.”
Apart from the challenging 42-kilometer race, the event also featured a 21-kilometer race, with Dorcas Ajok emerging as the standout female athlete, completing the race in 1 hour, 16 minutes, and 24 seconds. In the male category, Abel Chebet secured the top spot with a time of 1:02:56.
The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon is a highlight of the annual Rwenzori Theluji Festival in Kasese, organized by Equator Hikes and supported by various partners, including Uganda Breweries Limited, Britam Insurance, Standard Chartered Bank, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and the Ministry of Tourism. This year’s event even drew participation from international celebrities like British sports commentator Rob Walker.
The marathon showcased not only the remarkable athletic prowess of Ugandan runners but also the beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains, making it an event to remember for both participants and spectators.
Ugandans Shine at 2023 Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon
