KTB collaborates with Athletics Kenya to launch Mountain and Trail Series

On December 19, 2024, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and Athletics Kenya (AK) announced the launch of the "Magical Kenya Mountain & Trail Series," aimed at enhancing Kenya’s image as a destination for sports and adventure tourism. The series will begin with the Barng'etuny Mountain Run in Nandi County on January 18, 2025.

Speaking during the launch event in Nairobi, PS for Tourism John Ololtua said that Kenya known as the home of running and world beaters has the potential to attract additional tourists by tapping in the mountain and trail series which also gives opportunity for youth to exploit their talent as well as promote the local economies where the trail takes place.

"This Magical Kenya Mountain and trail Series align with our broader strategy of positioning Kenya as a multi-experience destination, catering to diverse interests and preferences," he said. “We are confident that this trail series will become a flagship event, drawing visitors from around the globe and contributing significantly to our tourism economy.”

Athletics Kenya President Lt Gen (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei expressed his excitement saying “We are glad to partner on this trail series which runs across various mountain trails and counties. We can use this mountain runs and trails to train our athletes to compete in the World Mountain and Trail Running Championship while also positioning Kenya to host one of the events in the global series. We already have over 20 medals in the championships and will use the Tinderet Barng'etuny Mountain Run to select the athletes who will represent Kenya in the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships,” he said.

The series will include six events throughout the year: Barng'etuny Mountain Run, Nyamira Great Run (May), Mt Kenya Mountain Run (June), Aberdare’s Trail Run (August), Mt Longonot Edition (November), and the Elgon run (December). KTB CEO June Chepkemei stated that the collaboration is pivotal in diversifying Kenya's tourism offerings and tapping into the sports tourism market.

The launch also featured comments from local officials, reflecting a commitment to empowering communities through sports and tourism, and highlighting the scenic landscapes of the Rift Valley. The initiative is also part of the Kenya Adventure Tourism Club, which aims to consolidate efforts from various sectors to promote adventure tourism in Kenya.

Chepkemei said that the collaboration was a significant milestone in the board's efforts to diversify Kenya's tourism offering and tap into the lucrative sports tourism markets. She added that the Mountain & Trail Series would be a game changer attracting both international sports enthusiasts and domestic tourists. "Kenya is endowed with breathtaking landscapes, from majestic mountains to pristine trails, which provide the perfect backdrop for adventure and sports," said Chepkemei. "By partnering with Athletics Kenya and launching this Mountain and trail series we aim to leverage our international stature as a sports giant to market our destination as well as attract more tourists to Kenya." 

The MP for Tinderet who is also the patron of the Barngetuny mountain run said “The Barng'etuny Mountain Run is not only a platform to celebrate Kenya's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes but also an opportunity to empower our communities through sports and tourism. This event will bring people together, foster economic growth, and showcase the unique beauty of the Rift Valley to the world. We invite everyone to come and be part of this exciting event, explore our rich heritage, and witness the beauty that makes our region a true gem."