It’s All Systems Set For The 2023 Lewa Safari Marathon

22 June 2023

This year’s edition, powered by Safaricom and Huawei, has drawn a total of 1,200 participants in the 42km, 21km, 10km and 5km races 

Nairobi, Kenya – 22nd June 2023…  The highly-anticipated Safaricom-powered annual Lewa Safari Marathon is set for this Saturday 24^th June at Lewa Conservancy in Isiolo County.

Six-time defending champion Frida Lodepa is expected to take part in the weekend event, which has attracted over 1,200 people. The races will include the 42-kilometre (full marathon), 21km (half marathon) and 10km races. There will also be a children’s 5km race.

Lodepa embarked on intense training in January this year at her camp in Iten with her Cloud Nine Athletics Club in readiness to defend the women’s 42km category, which she dominated last year. The proceeds of the annual race go towards wildlife conservation.

"I love Lewa because of its hot climate, which works in my favour during the race, and it's also an enjoyable experience running alongside wild animals. I have been training rigorously since January, consistently covering 20kms in the morning and 10kms in the evening. On Saturdays, I push myself further, covering 40-45kms in the morning. Despite the unpredictability inherent in athletics, my determination to secure my seventh consecutive title remains unwavering, following my victory in last year's marathon," said Fridah Lodepa.

Now in its 24th year, the Lewa Safari Marathon, sponsored by Safaricom and Huawei, is one of the world’s most breathtaking races, notorious for its challenging, yet captivating terrain and incredible wildlife experiences.

Since its inception in 2000, the race has raised over $8 million in support of conservation and community initiatives throughout Kenya. Nearly $4 million has been invested in the direct protection of endangered species, other wildlife and their habitats.