Nairobi: This year's Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon raised Sh76 million for community programmes, marking the largest amount ever collected from a one-day event in Kenya. The 22nd edition of the marathon witnessed triumphant performances by Kenya's Bernard Chepkwony and Hellen Chepkorir, who clinched the titles in the men's and women's 42km races, completing them in 2:11:01 and 2:27:17, respectively.
According to Kenya News Agency, Joshua Kithuku and Fridah Rerimoi emerged victorious in the 21km men and women categories, finishing in 1:02:35 and 1:14:23. In the 10km race, Shadrack Musyoka and Nelvin Jepkemboi secured wins with times of 29:01 and 33:04. The 21km wheelchair race saw John Wambua and Mary Tatu Jared winning in the men's and women's categories, clocking 1:29:25 and 1:49:47, respectively.
This year's event attracted a record number of participants, with 30,602 runners from 92 nationalities, showing an increase in participants across all races. Over 200 elite athletes competed, representing a diverse pool of talent from Kenya and the region. Participation of persons with disabilities increased to 184 from 146 in 2024. The 10km race had the highest number of participants, rising to 12,855 from 10,276 in 2024. The top five nationalities participating in 2025 were Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, China, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
The marathon featured six distinct race categories: 42km men and women, 21km men and women, 10km men and women, 21km wheelchair men and women, the 5km Family Fun Run, and the Corporate Relay Challenge. Standard Chartered's Managing Director and CEO, Kenya and Africa, Kariuki Ngari, noted the rise in elite runners, sponsors, and participants. The event focused on inclusivity and sustainability, providing mothers' rooms and nursing stations along the route and at the venue.
With over 40 sponsors and partners, the marathon delivered an exceptional experience, extending its impact beyond the race itself. For 22 years, the proceeds have transformed the lives of Kenyans. Standard Chartered partnered with the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya to ensure credible results through doping tests conducted on top finishers. In collaboration with Athletics Kenya, the marathon secured the prestigious World Athletics Road Race Label in 2023, allowing runners to compete at their best and be ranked globally.
All proceeds from the marathon go towards Standard Chartered's Futuremakers community initiative, empowering the next generation to learn, earn, and grow by focusing on education, employability, and entrepreneurship.