Every October, as dawn breaks over Uhuru Gardens, the rhythm of thousands of feet fills the streets of Nairobi. The city comes alive with purpose, runners, volunteers, and families gathered in the name of endurance, community, and hope.
The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, one of Africa’s most celebrated road races, returns on Sunday, October 26, 2025, inviting runners of every background to take part in a journey that’s more than just a race. It’s a reflection of Kenya’s heart for running, disciplined, joyful, and deeply connected to giving back.
An Event Rooted in Purpose
Organized by Standard Chartered Bank Kenya in partnership with Athletics Kenya, the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has grown into an event that embodies both athletic excellence and social impact. Since its inception, the race has raised millions for the Futuremakers initiative, a global program aimed at empowering youth through education, employability, and entrepreneurship.
In 2025, around 25,000 to 30,000 participants are expected to gather at Uhuru Gardens, each carrying a personal goal to run, to give, and to be part of something larger than themselves.
Race Categories for Everyone
The beauty of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon lies in its inclusivity. Whether you’re an elite athlete chasing a personal best or a family enjoying a Sunday run together, there’s a category for you.
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Full Marathon (42.195 km): For the seasoned runner ready to test their endurance on a world-class route.
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Half Marathon (21.1 km): Perfect for those balancing challenges with experience.
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10 km Race – Open to all fitness levels, offering a taste of competitive running without the full marathon strain.
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5 km Family Fun Run: A non-competitive event for runners of all ages, reminding us that running is as much about joy as it is about performance.
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Wheelchair Race (21.1 km): Celebrating resilience and accessibility in sport.
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Corporate Challenge: Encouraging teamwork and wellness across Kenya’s corporate community.
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CEO Challenge: Designed for business leaders who champion healthy, active lifestyles.
Each category adds a new beat to Nairobi’s rhythm, making race day not just a competition, but a celebration of movement and unity.
The Course: Running Beside the Wild
The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon 2025 begins at Uhuru Gardens, one of the city’s most symbolic spaces of freedom and progress. From there, the route unfolds along the Southern Bypass, a scenic stretch offering breathtaking views of Nairobi National Park. It’s a route where urban energy meets natural beauty and where runners often find moments of reflection as the sun rises over the savannah.
The course is known for being flat and fast, with an elevation gain of just 27.8 meters. This makes it ideal for both professional athletes seeking record times and amateurs looking to experience a smooth, well-supported run. The marathon route is officially certified and fully equipped with hydration and medical support stations.
For a more detailed view, the official route maps are available on nairobimarathon.com.
Start Times & Schedule
To ensure smooth coordination for all categories, runners should keep an eye on start times:
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Wheelchair Race – 5:45 AM
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Full Marathon – 6:00 AM
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Half Marathon – 6:45 AM
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10 km Race – 8:00 AM
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5 km Family Fun Run – 9:30 AM
Runners are encouraged to arrive early, allowing time for warm-up and hydration. Nairobi mornings can be cool, so layering up before the start is often a good idea.
Training Plan: Preparing for Race Day
Training for the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon isn’t just about physical endurance — it’s about mental strength, rhythm, and respect for the process. Whether you’re running 5 km or 42 km, consistency is your best companion.
1. Build Gradually
Start your training at least 12–16 weeks before race day. Begin with easy runs three times a week and gradually increase distance and intensity. For first-time marathoners, aim to peak at around 32 km in your longest run before tapering down two weeks before the event.
2. Mix It Up
A great marathoner trains with variety. Alternate between long runs to build endurance, tempo runs to improve pace, and interval sessions for strength and stamina. Add one or two days of strength training per week to develop core stability, improve posture, and prevent injury. Activities like yoga, cycling, or swimming can also complement your running routine.
3. Find Your Fit
When preparing for race day, choosing the right gear is essential for comfort and performance. With Enda Sportswear, you can ensure that your footwear is built for durability and comfort on both the long training runs and the big race day. It’s important to test your gear and shoes during your runs, ensuring they support you every step of the way, helping you focus on your pace and performance, not discomfort.
4. Respect Rest Days
Rest is an active part of training. It’s during recovery that your muscles rebuild, grow stronger, and become more efficient. Schedule at least one full rest day each week. Sleep deeply, stretch regularly, and hydrate well. Remember, overtraining can drain your motivation, but steady progress builds lasting confidence.
5. Train at Altitude If You Can
Nairobi’s elevation of about 1,795 meters above sea level gives local runners an advantage. If you’re visiting from a lower altitude, give yourself time to adjust — at least a few days before race day to help your body adapt.
6. Simulate the Conditions
Prepare your body and mind for what’s to come. Train in the early morning, when race temperatures will be similar. Run on terrain that mirrors the Southern Bypass — mostly flat with a few gentle inclines. Practice running in your race-day shoes and gear to avoid surprises.
7. Nutrition & Hydration
Eat a balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and fruits. Practice fueling during long runs to know what works best for your stomach. Remember to hydrate before, during, and after each session.
Running in Kenya is as much about community as it is about preparation. Find local running clubs or training groups, like Nairobi Runners, Urban Swaras, or Enda Community Runs, to keep motivation high and learn from others’ experiences.
Awards, Recognition & Sustainability
The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has become a symbol of excellence, and its rewards mirror the effort put in by the athletes. The prize money reflects the event’s prestige and commitment to nurturing local talent:
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Full Marathon (Men & Women): Top prize of KES 2,000,000, with tiered rewards for the top ten finishers.
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Half Marathon: Up to KES 300,000 for the winner.
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Wheelchair Race: Equal recognition with KES 300,000 for first place.
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10 km Race: Winners take home KES 200,000.
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Corporate Challenge: KES 100,000 for the top team.
Every finisher, regardless of distance, earns more than a medal. Each participant receives a Finisher’s Medal, a Tree Seedling, and a Digital Certificate. It is a gesture that ties personal achievement to collective environmental responsibility.
The marathon also commits to sustainability goals that resonate deeply with Enda’s values. With initiatives to plant 2 million trees in five years, ensure 100% waste recycling, and reduce single-use plastics, the event exemplifies how sport can drive positive change.
Meet Our Ambassadors at the Race
At Enda, we are proud to support athletes who exemplify resilience, determination, and the true spirit of Kenyan running. This year, we are excited to have Henry Wanyoike, a celebrated Paralympian and Enda ambassador, participating in the 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.
Henry Wanyoike: A Story of Perseverance and Triumph
Henry Wanyoike is a globally recognized athlete who continues to inspire with his incredible journey of overcoming adversity. Having lost his sight in his youth, Henry has gone on to become one of Kenya’s most celebrated Paralympians, winning multiple medals at the Paralympic Games. This year, he will be running the Nairobi Marathon, showcasing the power of the human spirit and the transformative role of sport.
Want to know more about Henry’s journey and his achievements? Visit his official profile on Enda Sportswear.
Peter Njenga: The Guide Who Makes the Difference
Henry will be joined by his trusted guide, Peter Njenga, who has been by his side through countless races. Peter’s support is crucial to Henry’s success, ensuring he navigates the course safely and effectively. Their partnership is a beautiful reminder that, in sport, teamwork and trust are as important as individual performance. Together, they exemplify the essence of collaboration and dedication.
To read about Peter Njenga, the man behind Henry’s success, check out his profile here.
Enda’s Commitment to Empowering Athletes
As proud representatives of Enda Sportswear, both Henry and Peter will be wearing our high-performance gear, designed to enhance comfort, speed, and durability on race day. Our products are made to support long-distance running, keeping athletes like Henry focused on their performance, not their gear.
Henry’s participation in the 2025 Nairobi Marathon is more than just about winning; it’s about proving that resilience and community can overcome any challenge. We’re thrilled to see him race, alongside Peter Njenga, and celebrate the power of inclusion in sport.
Running the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon: More Than a Race
The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon isn’t just a fixture on the calendar; it’s a celebration of Kenya’s spirit. It’s about the cheer of strangers on the roadside, the discipline of dawn training, the kindness of volunteers handing water, and the pride of crossing the finish line with a medal in hand and purpose in heart.
Whether you’re running your first 5 km or chasing a marathon PB, this event reminds every runner why we run to move, to belong, and to make a difference.
At Enda, we are proud to be part of this incredible community, supporting athletes of all levels and inspiring each step toward success. Whether you’re gearing up for the race or reflecting on your training journey, find the gear that helps you reach your full potential. Visit Enda Sportswear today to explore our high-performance running shoes and gear designed for comfort, durability, and Kenyan excellence.
Join us at the Nairobi Marathon, and let’s make every step count.
