SBS Alumnus Runs 100KM Ultramarathon to Educate Needy Students

The Strathmore University Foundation marked a key milestone in its fundraising activities on the 4th of October 2020 by holding a 100KMs Ultramarathon. Eliud Chemweno, an alumnus of Strathmore University Business School would run 100KMs in a bid to raise funds for the Strathmore University COVID-19 Relief Fund.

Having an ultramarathon during a pandemic seemed somewhat unachievable, especially taking into consideration the time needed to plan for the event paused a few questions on whether it could be pulled off. Under normal circumstances, it would have taken several months to prepare for such a big event.

The strong-willed and energetic Eliud Chemweno made it very clear that he was determined to live the Strathmore University spirit and run 100 KMs in support of the Strathmore COVID-19

Relief Fund. Having run 92 KMS before, Eliud knew he could rise to the challenge.

With support from our Vice-Chancellor Designate Dr. Vincent Ogutu, several enthusiastic members of staff, and other self-proclaimed runners who had volunteered to run along with Eliud, the ultramarathon kicked off at 04:30 AM on 4th October 2020.

A team followed the runners to ensure that they had all the support they needed during the run. Keeping a pace of 6 Km/hr, the team made it to

their first stop at the 1.7 Lounge along the eastern bypass marking the first 30 KMS. After about 10 minutes of rest, and a few refreshments, the team kicked off the next 70 more KMs. The roads were still very clear with little traffic creating a favorable environment for the runners.

At around 11.30 a.m., Eliud and the other runners had hit the 50 KM mark and made a second stop at the Moran Lounge along the Nothern by-pass. Reflecting on the distance covered from morning till this point and the realization of 50KMs more to go, would make anyone cringe, but Eliud wore a wide smile on his face that encouraged everyone. Being a relay with Eliud acting as the baton, a few runners joined in, others took a break and decided to join later on during the day.

The sun was already out and the temperatures were rising as the hours passed. The team made it to the Ndenderu market for the third stop, at least for a few minutes. The roadside stop was very dusty since there was road construction work underway. However, this was not a hindrance, the team kept moving, gearing closer to the 100KM mark. The fourth stop was at the Wangige market, here Eliud took a few minutes to stretch his muscles before getting back on the run. All through the run, our medical team kept a close eye on Eliud and all the runners. The next stop was at Kikuyu town where a few more runners joined in as others took a short break. In no time, the team hit the road for the final lap. Understandably the runners were experiencing a toll after the climb from Thika road overpass to Kikuyu. A gruesome 756 M elevation climb!

At around 8.00 PM the team was on Langata road, just a few KMs from the finish line at Strathmore University. The

Eliud took up the challenge to run 100KM not for an award, trophy, or a trip to a fancy place, but for his love of education.

energy pumped into the last 10 KMs by the Phenom Estate Community was what the doctor ordered for Eliud. They gave him the boost of energy and the encouraging friendship support that he needed to complete the run.

There was a large crowd at the finish line waiting for Eliud and the other runners. Suddenly, the clouds disappeared making way for the stars to fill the sky as the cheering squad was keeping hope alive to see the end of the victorious ultramarathon. The cheering from the crowd, coupled

with the hooting of vehicles increased as Eliud ran his last lap with a focus on the finish line tape with a smile. Eliud and four others had run the entire 100 KMs! Up to the finish line! James Ndiang’ui, Samuel Ndungu, Linda Omondi, and Jabez Magomere acted as buffers for Eliud all through the 100KMs run. This team was dubbed Club 100. Amazingly four out of five of the Club 100, are Strathmore University Alumni.

Eliud took up the challenge to run 100KM not for an award, trophy, or a trip to a fancy place, but for his love of education. He did it for thousands of students at Strathmore University to continue their education despite the COVID-19 pandemic. He did it to contribute towards the Strathmore University COVID Relief Fund.

By Margaret Gitau and Furaha Achieng

BUSINESS SCHOOL BUSINESS SCHOOL