Lewa Marathon

For the last few months, I have been getting my exercise on the 3.3 km sand road around the UN compound.  A few laps is no big deal, but try training for a half marathon on the sand! 

My training ground.

What was I training for?  Why, the Safaricom Half-Marathon in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (or "Lewa" as the natives refer to the race).

Still feeling good at 10 kilometers.

Safaricom is the largest Kenyan cellphone provider and is the major sponsor of the marathon and half-marathon (which most people opt to run)  held in  Lewa Wildlife Conservancy near Mount Kenya.  The full marathon is considered one of the most difficult in the world, and I'd argue that the half marathon is one of the toughest as well! The course runs through the bush over undulating terrain at an average altitude of 5,500 feet.  But what makes the race so unique is its location in a game park.  The conservancy is home to over 100 rhinos, herds of elephants, and other exotic animals, so you never know who/what might be running next to you as you make your way to the finish line.  Security is must, and armed rangers, helicopters and a spotter plane are all deployed to watch over the runners during the race.

View of the first water station

Upon arrival at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, my friends and I received our race bibs, quickly stopped by the campsite and then, as any good Kenyan would do in a nature park, went on a game drive.  I am still awed by the sight of giraffes, zebras, gazelles just meters from the car!

Our safari vehicle!

Roughing it

Pre-race game drive, of course!

The race is limited to 1,000 participants with a cap on the number of spectators as well, so you better sign up early!  The conditions on race day were ideal, cool with some cloud cover.  As to be expected, the scenery  along the 21 km circuit was spectacular. 

 I snapped many photos along the way.  Unfortunately, I also shared some water at one of the water stops with my camera.  Of course, the pictures of the elephants next to the race course now look like elephants in a blizzard...or just a blizzard.

 The race, which raises money for the conservancy as well as projects benefiting the local communities, is not to be missed.  Runners come from all over the world to enjoy the beautiful landscape, challenging course and merriment that make up the Lewa Marathon weekend.

And we're off!

If you run and find yourself in Kenya in June, I definitely recommend signing up for the race!