Primary school pupil wins Busia border marathon

Samuel Limo and Selpha Mung'ala emerged winners of the 15km men and women races, during the third edition of the Busia border marathon at Busia Polytechnic on Easter Sunday.

Limo won the men's race in a time of 52:01.09, as Emmanuel Ogungo and Eliud Omulado came second and third respectively.

In the women category, standard 7 pupil at Bulanda Primary School Selpha Mung'ala won the race in a time of 1:2:36, ahead of Apokor Secondary form one student Harriet Okiring, and Goreti Akisa of St Peter's Katelenyang Secondary school.

Other races included the 5km and 10km competitions.

Busia Deputy Governor (DG) Arthur Odera was among leaders who reached the finish line in the 10km race.

This year's edition of the Busia border marathon was themed building and advocating for health and wellness through behaviour change for a sustainable, resilience and wealthy border community.

Principal Secretary, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMES) Susan Mang'eni said Busia County is endowed with vast talents, thus the need for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to nurture them.

The PS assured county residents that with Ababu Namwamba as Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS), they will witness transformation of sports in the border county.

Before the action moved to the track, leaders present led locals in a tree planting session.

DG Odera said the aim was to help curb enviromental degredation.

On his part, County Executive Committe Member for Culture, Sports and Social Service Paul Olunga Ekwenye, said the county government has set aside Ksh100million in the next financial year to renovate Busia County Stadium.

The renovations will include revamping the playing field and installation of the tartan to be used by athletes, noting that the county government will also co-sponsor the next edition of Busia Border marathon.

Teso South MP Mary Emaase urged the organizers to make the Busia border race a bi-annual event and involve local leaders to attract local and international support.