It is one of the most significant and fascinating marathons in the world, ranked by Runner's World as one of the ten not to be missed for enthusiasts. This is also because it takes place in spectacular surroundings, the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, on the Laikipia plateau in Kenya, at an altitude of 1,600 metres, on dirt tracks and rough trails, in the middle of the savannah surrounded by acacia trees and with unique spectators such as rhinos, elephants, big cats and herbivores.
Last year, the event was cancelled at the last minute due to political tensions following street protests by young people.
This year, despite another black day for Kenya, with more than 12 dead and over 400 injured in last Wednesday's demonstration, the marathon will go ahead.
For the 25th edition, professional and amateur runners from all over the world will converge here for the Lewa Safari Marathon. Today, there will be over 1,400 runners, under the theme “Connecting generations through 25 years of conservation”.
Yes, because this is no ordinary competition: the Lewa Safari Marathon is a powerful movement that, for a quarter of a century, has combined the spirit of sport with the mission of conservation and community development. This year, for example, the funds raised through the race have enabled the construction of an electric fence that has helped solve the problem of elephants invading farms around the reserve and causing problems for farmers. All this has a positive impact on local communities, who consider the marathon “a blessing”.
But the aid, including that provided by sponsors, goes beyond the annual goal of simple projects, supporting long-term initiatives that are fundamental to education, health, training and community development, and access to water for thousands of people in Kenya.
The impact is clear: from saving Kenya's black rhino population from extinction, to protecting Grevy's zebras, a critically endangered species, to providing education and essential services to disadvantaged communities.
The Lewa conservation model, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has become a global benchmark, and the marathon plays a central role in supporting it, with the athletes themselves becoming the movement's leading advocates.