Overview:
At least 1500 runners have bought the race kits of the event that has already sold out and the marathon will have a global timing system.
Fresh from clinching a bronze medal at the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, vastly experienced long-distance runner Abel Chebet will also take part in the second edition of the Gulu City Marathon.
Chebet, a triple winner of the half-marathon of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, returns to the domestic scene once again in Gulu.
“I am fired up and ready for the Gulu City Marathon. I have recovered well since the 10,000m race in Saudi Arabia,” Chebet, who finished behind Samuel Simba Cherop in Riyadh, stated.
“Gulu comes with its own demands and challenges. I am ready to experience the feel of Gulu and definitely the fun,” he added.
The half-marathon will be officially flagged off by the Deputy Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa.
800M star female runner Halima Nakaayi and Ambassador Olara Otunnu will flag off the 42KM race.
The second Gulu City Marathon is themed “Running for Culture and Heritage”.
It will take place on Saturday, 6th December 2025 at the Kaunda Grounds with the main race (42KM), half-marathon (21KM), 10KM and 5KM events.
At least 1500 runners have bought the race kits of the event which has already sold out and the marathon will have a global timing system.
Francis Gimara, chairperson of the Gulu City Marathon Steering Committee, is overwhelmed by the record attendance after the entries surpassed expectations.
“Initially, we expected about 1,000 runners this year, but we registered 1,500. We actually sold out with a couple of days to the event, which is a testimony of the evolving running culture, a good sign that people care about their health, one of the aims the marathon wants to achieve. The course was assessed this year by Gavin Wright, one of the very few World Athletics-accredited route measurers in Africa. He’s the very person who assessed the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon route in Kasese before it was accredited by World Athletics,” Gimara.
Tusker Lite, a household name in running and lifestyle circles, will definitely bring their signature energy and vibrance to Gulu.
The brand will elevate the marathon after-party with a VIP experience featuring local and national artist performances, premium refreshments, and an unforgettable celebration atmosphere with music diva Azawi among the performing artists expected.
“The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, which marked its fourth edition this year, has given us valuable experience and insight. We are now bringing that energy and expertise to the Gulu City Marathon. Tusker Lite is all about encouraging people to live active, social, and fulfilling lives. We want to fuel experiences that celebrate individuality, progressiveness, and vibrant social energy,” Denise Nazzinda, the Tusker Lite Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Ltd, said.
Other partners and sponsors:
Tusker Lite aside, the other partners and sponsors include Uganda Baati (who will also host a medical camp), Equity Bank, Uganda Airlines, National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), CFAO Mobility, Suzuki, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Krystal Water, National Information Technology Authority (NITA), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and Swangz Avenue.
The Gulu City marathon has continued with its CSR trajectory. 10 % of the event proceeds will go towards the Martin Aliker Youth Skilling Centre in Abole, Omoro District.
All runners who complete their races will receive finisher medals as a celebration of their achievement.
