Karen Mumbi, Representative of the After Six Africa Project Team (L) handing over a token to Millicent Kemunto, alongside Daniel Gatama, Marathon Convenor of the Parklands Sports Club (R)/ HANDOUT
Victor Kiplagat and Millicent Kemunto claimed top honours in the men's and women's half marathon respectively on Sunday as the Standard Chartered Nairobi City Marathon warm-up race lit up Parklands Sports Club.
More than 2,000 runners turned out for the build-up event ahead of the 23rd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, set for October 25.
The warm-up race gave athletes the perfect opportunity to gauge their fitness and fine-tune preparations for the flagship event, with competitors battling it out across the 6km, 10km, 15km and 21km distances.
Kiplagat surged to victory in the men's 21km race in 1:10:10, while Kemunto produced an equally impressive performance to clinch the women's victory in 1:22:46.
Speaking after his triumph, Kiplagat said the win had provided the ideal confidence boost as he shifts his focus to next month's marathon.
“Winning today has given me confidence as I prepare for the main race next month. The competition was strong and I am happy with my performance. I will use this momentum as I work towards achieving an even better result at the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon,” said Kiplagat.
The marathon build-up will continue with another satellite run in Mombasa on October 18.
This year's StanChart Marathon will be staged along the Southern Bypass, with Uhuru Gardens serving as both the start and finish venue.
The 2026 edition is expected to attract more than 30,000 participants and will feature seven categories: the 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km race, 21km wheelchair race, 5km Family Fun Run, CEO Challenge and Corporate Challenge.
Since its inception in 2003, the marathon has grown into one of Africa's premier road races, attracting more than 345,000 participants over the years.
It also boasts the prestigious World Athletics Road Race Label, a recognition of its adherence to international standards in course measurement, timing, medical services, environmental sustainability and anti-doping.
“The turnout at Parklands is a strong indication of the enthusiasm building towards this year's marathon,” said Joyce Kibe, Standard Chartered's Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing for Kenya and Africa.
“Our focus is on giving runners a safe, inclusive and high-quality race experience while ensuring that the event continues to create a wider impact beyond the course.”
Beyond competition, this year's marathon will blend elite athletics with meaningful environmental and community initiatives.
In partnership with Nairobi City County, organisers are targeting the planting of 50,000 tree seedlings across the county as part of the event's sustainability agenda.
The race will also support the Standard Chartered Foundation's mission of empowering young people through programmes centred on financial education, entrepreneurship, mentorship and life skills.
Participant welfare has equally been elevated, with the 2026 edition featuring mobile medical units, hydration stations, nutrition and electrolyte support, misting points and professional pacing teams positioned throughout the course.
