By Athletics Kenya Media Team
Over 30,000 runners taking part in this year’s Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon are set to benefit from expanded medical cover, additional hydration support, improved post-race recovery services and new sustainability measures as organisers step up preparations for the October 25 race.
This year’s event will feature seven race categories: the 42km Marathon, 21km Half Marathon, 21km Wheelchair Race, 10km Race, CEO Challenge and 5km Family Fun Run.
As preparations get into full swing ahead of next month’s race, organisers have unveiled a raft of enhancements aimed at elevating both athlete welfare and race-day operations.
Participants are set to benefit from expanded medical cover, additional hydration support, improved post-race recovery services and new sustainability initiatives. Among the key upgrades are 20 hydration stations strategically positioned along the course, roaming bicycle medics to accelerate emergency response, dedicated muscle relief stations, enhanced recovery support and downloadable digital finisher certificates.
The Local Organising Committee said the improvements are designed to strengthen athlete safety while positioning the marathon among Africa’s leading road races operating to international standards.
StanChart Marathon’s sustainability programme
In a further boost to its environmental agenda, every finisher will receive a tree seedling, with organisers targeting the planting of 50,000 trees in partnership with Nairobi City County.
The wider sustainability programme also includes waste segregation, recycling, reduced single-use plastics, responsible sourcing and impact measurement. LOC chairman David Mwindi said the 2026 edition is centred on delivering a superior experience for every participant.
“This year, our focus is on raising the quality of the runner experience while strengthening the safety and sustainability standards behind the race. From medical response and hydration to recovery and environmental responsibility, every enhancement is intended to give participants a well-organised, world-class marathon experience,” Mwindi said.
As anticipation builds, organisers will also stage warm-up runs across the country in the coming weeks to help participants fine-tune their preparations ahead of the October showdown.
Athletics Kenya president Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei said the marathon’s World Athletics Road Race Label status continues to cement its reputation as a credible global competition for both Kenyan and international athletes.
“The World Athletics Road Race Label affirms the organisers’ commitment to excellence and international race standards. It provides athletes with a recognised competitive platform and reinforces Kenya’s position as a global leader in distance running,” Tuwei said.
Beyond the finish line, the marathon will continue driving community impact through the Standard Chartered Foundation, whose programmes empower young people with skills, employment opportunities and pathways to entrepreneurship.
