Cheptoch, Chebet Triumph as Mt. Rwenzori Marathon Lights Up Kasese

Kasese came alive on Sunday as thousands of athletes, tourists, and spectators filled the town for the 4th edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, now regarded as one of Uganda’s fastest-growing sporting and tourism events.

Since its launch in 2022, the marathon has steadily gained international attention. This year’s edition attracted more than 6,000 participants, from elite athletes to fun runners, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains.

In the full 42km marathon, Bernard Cheptoch claimed victory in 2:21:41, securing UGX 10 million. Racheal Zena Chebet dominated the women’s race with a time of 2:35:18, also winning UGX 10 million. The half-marathon saw Abel Chebet extend his dominance with a third consecutive title, clocking 1:02:04 to bag UGX 7 million.

Speaking after his win, Cheptoch credited his resilience and the crowd’s energy. “The course was tough, but the beauty of the Rwenzoris and the support along the way kept me going. Winning here is a big moment for me as it opens doors to bigger marathons across the continent,” he said.

The marathon has grown beyond sport to become a driver of tourism and economic activity. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses in Kasese reported full bookings, while improved roads and infrastructure have made the town more accessible.

Andrew Kilonzo, Managing Director of Uganda Breweries Limited, praised the record turnout. “The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon continues to surpass expectations. It is more than just a race—it’s about promoting an active lifestyle, supporting local talent, and boosting Uganda’s running community,” he said. He added that the marathon has also become a major boost to tourism in the Rwenzori region.

The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Gladys Boss Shollei, Deputy Speaker of the Kenyan Parliament, Martin Mugara, Minister of Tourism, Godfrey Kabyanga Baluku, Minister of State for ICT, and former Leader of Opposition Winnie Kiiza.

Amos Wekesa, Director of Equator Hikes, said the vision is to position the marathon among the world’s premier sporting events. “The Kasese of today is not the Kasese of 2022 when we first started. The benefits for tourism and economic growth are immense, and we thank our sponsors for helping us make this dream possible,” he said.

The 2025 edition was supported by partners including Standard Chartered Bank, Britam, Coca-Cola Beverages, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Kiira Motors, PSFU, UWA, and Uganda Airlines.

Winners

42km Men

1. Bernard Cheptoch – 02:21:41

2. John Muthui Musee – 02:22:00

3. Ayeko Antony – 02:22:12

4. Michael Kiprotich – 02:22:21

5. Moses Cherop – 02:25:22

6. Michael Mtai – 02:26:46

42km Women

1. Rachael Zena Chebet – 02:35:18

2. Chemusto Keren – 02:38:39

3. Rebecca Cherop – 02:35:49

4. Dorine Cheasang – 02:38:08

5. Joy Loyce Kemuma – 02:40:41

6. Irine Korir – 02:43:37

21km Men

1. Abel Chebet – 01:02:04

2. Alex Kiplangat – 01:02:05

3. Martin Kiprotich Magen – 01:02:32

4. Amon Kiptoo – 01:02:45

5. Ezekiel Mutai – 01:03:12

21km Women

1. Kerine Cherop – 01:12:44

2. Esther Chekweomoi Yeko – 01:13:23

3. Annet Chemengich Chelangat – 01:14:17

4. Gloria Chebet – 01:16:55

5. Naomi Chelangat – 01:17:14