The Athletics Race Fund Opens for the 2026 Nairobi City Marathon

The heartbeat of Kenyan distance running is found in the high-altitude trails of Elgeyo Marakwet. From the winding paths of Iten, the Home of Champions is currently buzzing with a singular focus, the 5th Edition of the Nairobi City Marathon.

As the highly anticipated event draws near, DBA Africa is proud to announce that applications for the Athletics Race Fund (ARF) are officially open. We are calling on dedicated athletes from Elgeyo Marakwet to apply for support to compete in what has become the premier urban racing spectacle in Africa.

The Big City Stage: July 7th, 2026

Scheduled for July 7th, 2026, the Nairobi City Marathon is more than just a race, it is a gateway to the global stage. As the first major marathon to weave through the heart of the capital’s city center and along the iconic Expressway, it offers a unique, fast-paced environment that differs significantly from high-altitude training.

Last year, through various DBA-related programs, we successfully entered over 30 athletes into this major event. For many, it was not just a competition, but a vital opportunity to travel, experience the city's environs, and test their mettle against a world-class field.

Why the Nairobi City Marathon Matters

This race has quickly gained a reputation for being one of the best-organized and highest-paying events in the country and that is why the Athletics Race Fund is important. To put the stakes into perspective:

• Life-Changing Rewards: Last year’s pole position winner took home over KSh 3 million Kenya Shillings, a transformative amount that provides a massive boost for upcoming athletes looking to invest in their professional careers.
• Elite Exposure: Because the race is held in the capital, it removes the logistical nightmare often associated with scouting in remote areas. It is easily accessible to international agents, brand scouts, and talent managers, making it the ultimate scouting ground for the next generation of marathon stars.

The DBA Africa Commitment: Local Leadership, Global Standards

We understand that competing at this level requires more than just physical readiness. To ensure our athletes from the North Rift are supported, DBA Africa appoints a Local Team Manager to oversee the squad. This manager serves as the direct link to our head office, handling logistics and providing on-the-ground support so that our athletes can focus entirely on their performance. This model not only supports the runners but also creates vital opportunities for local leadership development within the Elgeyo Marakwet sporting community.

How to Apply

We have seen athletes preparing tirelessly, with many opting out of smaller events to ensure they are at peak fitness for the July 7th start line. If you have the drive, the times, and the discipline, we want to help you get there.

The Athletics Race Fund is designed to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity. We invite serious contenders from the Home of Champions to submit their applications.

Don't let logistics stand in the way of your breakthrough. Join the DBA Africa team as we take on the streets of Nairobi and show the world why Elgeyo Marakwet remains the undisputed cradle of distance running.

Drop us a message on our contacts for consideration.