The Barng’etuny Mountain Run, set to take place on January 18 in Nandi County, is a pivotal event for Athletics Kenya (AK) as it plays a significant role in the selection of the country’s team for the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in September 2025. As part of the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series, the event has gained prominence, attracting top mountain runners from across the nation. This year’s edition will serve as a key platform for identifying elite athletes and selecting a provisional team for the global competition.
Peter Angwenyi, AK’s Mountain Running coordinator, emphasized the importance of the Barng’etuny Mountain Run in the selection process. The first two athletes to cross the finish line in both the senior men’s and women’s races will be automatically included in the provisional team for the World Championships. AK plans to field two teams for the event, one for the classic race and another for the up-down race. The remaining athletes will be chosen based on their world rankings, ensuring that Kenya sends a competitive squad to Spain.
The Barng’etuny Mountain Run has become a cornerstone of AK’s calendar, not only for its role in team selection but also for its growing stature as a prestigious competition. Elite runners such as Patrick Kipng’eno and Josephat Kiprotich in the men’s category, and Joyce Njeru and Philaries Kipsang in the women’s category, are among the favorites for this year’s race. The event continues to attract both seasoned athletes and emerging talents, with a strong turnout expected in Tinderet.
Beyond its athletic significance, the Barng’etuny Mountain Run serves as a powerful vehicle for community development and tourism promotion. AK, in collaboration with the Kenya Tourism Board, has worked to ensure that the race not only showcases Kenya’s athletic prowess but also highlights the country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The event provides a unique opportunity to showcase the beauty of the region while fostering economic growth through tourism.
This year’s race course will remain largely unchanged, except for an adjustment to the finishing line. The new finishing area has been designed to offer spectators an unparalleled view of the athletes as they cross the line, as well as a scenic view of Lake Victoria. This change is aimed at enhancing the experience for both participants and spectators, making the event even more memorable.
The Barng’etuny Mountain Run also has a broader impact on the local communities. Julius Melly, the patron of the event, highlighted the importance of the race in empowering communities and promoting the region’s cultural diversity. He emphasized that the event not only celebrates Kenya’s heritage but also plays a role in uniting people and attracting global attention to the Rift Valley. The economic benefits of the race are also significant, as it draws tourists and sports enthusiasts from around the world.
The 2025 Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series is set to be even more ambitious, with the series scheduled to traverse several iconic Kenyan destinations. After the Barng’etuny Run, the series will move to Nyamira in May, followed by events at Mt. Kenya in June, the Aberdares in August, Mt. Longonot in November, and concluding at Mt. Elgon in December. This series promises to continue showcasing Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes while promoting the country’s growing presence in mountain and trail running.
