The inaugural 2024 Gulu City Marathon promises to be a vibrant fusion of sport, culture, and heritage, bringing together runners from across Uganda under the theme “Running Culture and Heritage.”
Scheduled for Saturday, December 7, 2024, this event marks Gulu’s debut on the marathon circuit.
The chairperson of the steering committee, Francis Gimara, during a press conference in Gulu City at Gulu City Inn on Tuesday.
Gimara emphasized the significance of this event, noting that it establishes Gulu as part of the global marathon community, with the hope of inspiring a culture of fitness within the local community.
“The Gulu City Marathon will not only be a race but a celebration of culture, unity, and our commitment to empowering youth through education,” he said, noting that the marathon offers a uniquely flat course designed to support personal best times for participants.
Prizes will be awarded to top runners in various categories. The winner of the 42 kilometre full marathon will receive sh1.5m, with sh1m for the runner-up, and sh500,000 for third place.
For the 21-kilometre half marathon, the first-place winner will take home sh1m, with sh500,000 for the second-place finisher, and sh250,000 for the third.
The 10 kilometre and 5 kilometre routes will serve as fun runs, encouraging participation across all levels.
A portion of the marathon’s proceeds (10 percent) will go to the Dero Kwan Initiative to support educational programmes for youth in Northern Uganda.
Gimara, the former President of Uganda Law Society (ULS) said this gives participants an opportunity to contribute to revitalising education in the region.
Bonita Mulelengi, captain of the Fast and Furious Running Club, which initiated Gulu running events in 2019, said the marathon is a response to the demand for a larger and more impactful event.
“This marathon will showcase Acholi culture and history, making it a truly immersive experience for all,” she added, encouraging Ugandans to join not only to race but to support Gulu’s local economy.
Grace Kigundu, the Manager of Jaca Gardens, announced that participants and attendees can look forward to an array of cultural experiences, including local dances, traditional foods, and communal gatherings around a “Wang OO,” or fireplace.
Christine Lutara of Rocco Paco expressed gratitude that proceeds would benefit Granary Education, a key initiative under Dero Kwan, aligning with community upliftment efforts.
The marathon’s two-day festivities will begin with a cultural feast at Jaca Gardens, celebrating Acholi traditions, and culminate with the marathon on December 7.
The 42-kilometre race will kick off at 6:00 am, followed by the 21 kilometre at 6:30 am, the 10 kilometre at 7:00 am, and the 5 kilometre fun run at 7:30 am.
Ambassador Olara Otunnu will flag off the marathon, with the closing ceremony taking place between 9:00 am and 11:00 am at Kaunda Ground in Gulu City.
Registration for the marathon is now open at a fee of sh60,000, inviting runners to be part of a unique event that blends athleticism with cultural pride.