On Saturday the 28th November 2015 Ace Kenya saw communities come together from all areas of Siaya County and beyond to take part in the second Got Matar 10km Road Race. A total of 668 children and community members registered to take part in the varying races, as well as a further 1,500 spectators who kept spirits high throughout the day.
Every member of the community was able to take part in some way; whether it was to take part in the main 10km road race, sprint the 100m or participate in the veterans 1km race. Everybody got active and involved while supporting one another through each and every race.
The boys waiting to take part in the 1km race
Unsurprisingly, the day encountered some incredibly impressive finishing times and we are sure that we may have witnessed the next Mo Farah! A huge well done to the fastest male, Ezekiel Oduol, who completed the 10km race in a brilliant 30:50 and to the fastest female, Lillian Atieno Odira, who crossed the finish line in 40:44. We are so very impressed with all that took part and completed the race – especially considering the sweltering heat of the day!
Ezekiel Oduol approaching the finish line
As well as fun runs going on throughout the day, the occasion was also a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness in the community on the services that Ace offers, as well as to recognise and nurture the talents of young people living in these rural areas of Siaya.
The annual event was supported by The Jane Bubear Sport Foundation, Lord Deedes Trust and Ace Africa UK and was in collaboration with Athletics Kenya. Ace partnered with several organisations to offer a range of services on the day including the Ministry of Health who provided a free medical camp integrated with HIV counselling and testing, as well as an ambulance in case of injuries in the run. International Children Services (ICS) provided a legal aid clinic covering topics of parenting and child care. Aphia plus provided 250 pairs of shoes for needy school children to prevent jiggers infection.
We would like to express our most heartfelt of thanks to all these partners and officials who were involved on the day – this important run would not be possible without your enthusiasm and support.
We look forward to updating you on next year’s run – which promises to be another significant event in rural western Kenya! If you would like to represent Ace Africa and take part in the 2016 10km Race please do contact us at event@ace-africa.org.
- Lillian Atieno Odira having just crossed the finish line
- The girls making their way through the kid’s 1km race!
- 10km finisher
- Prize giving and speeches by JBSF representatives