The Kampala Hash House Harriers’ (KH3) annual Kampala–Jinja Relay, backed by Tusker Lite, climaxed on Saturday evening at the Source of the Nile Hotel in Jinja City, with about 600 runners from 32 clubs taking part in one of Uganda’s biggest endurance events.
The relay, which had Absa Bank and Pepsi as the other partners, started in Kira Municipality and covered an 88.1-kilometre course, with athletes competing across nine categories (CD1 to CD9) over varying terrain between Kampala and Jinja.
Uganda Prisons Service Athletics Club runner Peter Akwech emerged as the front-runner. He described the relay as an important training platform for major long-distance competitions, saying the high standard on display could see several athletes contend for top honours at the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon in Kasese on August 22.
Former champion Edrisa Bukosi finished third despite carrying injuries but remained upbeat.
“I am pleased to compete despite carrying injuries. This relay continues to provide an opportunity for athletes of different abilities to meet and compete,” he said, adding that the introduction of new features enhanced the experience.
In the women’s field, Jovia Athieno completed the full 88.1-kilometre distance in the CD1 category alongside male competitors. She acknowledged the challenge but said she was pleased to finish the demanding course, describing the strong turnout as an encouraging sign for the growth of relay running in Uganda.
Tusker Lite Brand Manager- Sandra Againe said the brand was proud to support the relay and noted that preparations for the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon are in high gear.
“More than 20 countries have already registered, reflecting the marathon’s growing international appeal. This year, participants will compete in a World Athletics calendar event with Label status, giving them an opportunity to qualify for other international races such as the Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon,” she said.
Hash Master Alice Gitta Okecho, said relay races remain relatively rare in Uganda but continue to play an important role in promoting fitness, healthy living and long-distance running.
“Participation has continued to increase as awareness of the event grows. This year’s relay attracted athletes from Kenya in addition to local competitors,” she said.
Okecho added that the varied Kampala–Jinja route helps runners develop the endurance and adaptability needed to perform under different race conditions. She also commended Tusker Lite for its continued support, saying the support from Tusker Lite and other partners enabled organisers to successfully stage the event.
Registration for the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon is ongoing via https://www.rwenzorimarathon.com/registration.
