Dennis Kirui resisted a strong challenge to emerge the winner of the inaugural 21Km Lucozade Forest Run held at Ngong Forest Sanctuary in Nairobi on Saturday.

The race was one of the fitness events open to everyone ready for a challenge in which cyclists also participated.

Kirui was awarded with a shopping voucher worth Sh15,000, a medal and merchandise from the soft drink manufacturer.  The athlete will use the voucher to purchase sports gear and equipment at the Nairobi Sports House.

Speaking during the event, Wanjiru Njenga, the marketing manager of Suntory,  said their aim was to bring people and nature together, adding they have plans to stage it thrice in a year.

Wanjiru noted that energy that Lucozade is delighted to promote nature conservation and active lifestyles, saying the energy drink is enjoyed well after a race or when has done something active.

,” said Wanjiru.

William Kirui finished in the second position followed closely by Wilson Kemboi while Milkah Gathuga led Marieke Geurts in the women’s race.

In cycling, Toby Blake emerged the winner after beating Julius Kaiguara and Dennis Gitonga respectively.

In 10km, Dominic Koech won the race followed by Cephus Mwilu and Peter Ocholla.

In the 5km race, Harrison Ndono Njugi beat Joshua Diopi and Eliud Muthika to become victor as Lindsay Karimi won ahead of Maureen Kungu in the women’s category.

 “The event is open and targets everyone and is not meant for elite athletes. It’s a fan event for people who want to be fit especially after the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Wanjiru.

The event organiser Joey Mugweru of Grassroot Sports Network said the event which attracted more than 300 athletes took place in the forest as their aim was to promote climate protection and sports.