Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon Achieves Different Milestones as Leonard Sets New Course Record

Ugandan athlete Chemonges Leonard has set a new course record at the 2026 Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, winning the men’s 42.2-kilometre race in 2:13:26.

Leonard finished ahead of fellow Ugandans Mutai Alex, who clocked 2:13:37, and Cherotwo Fred, who came third in 2:13:50.

Kenyan athlete Japchumba Margaret won the women’s 42.2km race in 2:39:16, followed by Uganda’s Vanis Chemutai in 2:43:33 and Chebet Joan in 2:44:09.

In the men’s 21.1km race, Abel Chebet maintained his dominance by winning in 1:02:01, marking his fourth victory in five editions of the marathon. Yeko Sam finished second in 1:02:03, while Kibet Oscar took third in 1:02:45.

Gloria Chebet won the women’s 21.1km race in 1:12:11. Chesang Prisca Chemweno finished second in 1:12:25, while Chemos Viola Munerya came third in 1:12:35.

Amos Wekesa, Team Leader of the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, said the 2026 edition achieved three major milestones that have further elevated the profile of the event.

He said the marathon has attained Official World Athletics Label Road Race status, become an official qualifier for the Comrades Marathon, and an official qualifier for the Two Oceans Marathon.

Wekesa said the achievements were made possible through collaboration between the marathon organizers and government, with the shared goal of attracting more runners and visitors to Kasese.

Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, the Second Deputy Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Bukonzo West, represented government at the event and pledged government and individual support towards the continued growth of the marathon.

Dr. Kiyonga said the Rwenzori region has in recent years been associated with negative narratives, but the marathon is helping to change the perception by attracting people to Kasese to explore the region and promote tourism.

He said events such as the marathon can help showcase the Rwenzori region as a destination for tourism and other opportunities.

Meanwhile, Hon. Sarah Ithungu, Woman Member of Parliament for Kasese District, pledged to promote young runners in the Rwenzori region and support them in nurturing their talents.

She said the region has established the Rwenzori Kids Marathon, an initiative aimed at identifying and developing running talent among children from an early age.

The initiative is intended to nurture the next generation of athletes who can compete for championship titles and represent the Rwenzori region and Uganda at national and international competitions.

The 2026 Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon has consequently emerged as more than a sporting event, with organizers and government using it to promote sports tourism, talent development and the positive image of Kasese and the Rwenzori region.

ENDS 

Story by Jonan Mumbere 

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