On Sunday, February 27, 2011, thousands of runners and spectators from all backgrounds will be in Moshi, Tanzania for the ninth-annual Kilimanjaro Marathon. Whether coming to participate in the Marathon or just to cheer on others, it is not too late to book travel arrangements and sign up to race; the Kilimanjaro Marathon is the event that you do not want to miss.
The Marathon is for everyone from professional runners to people who enjoy casual jogging. Under the backdrop of the fabled Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africaโs highest mountain and the worldโs tallest freestanding mountain, even non-runners can experience the momentum and excitement of the Marathon and the culture of Tanzania. The Marathon is divided into a full race (26.2 miles), a half race (13.1 miles), and a fun run (3.1 miles).
The route passes through some of Tanzaniaโs most beautiful landscapes including many small farms and villages, banana and coffee plantations and patches of forest. The bottling company, Kilimanjaro Water, will provide water and refreshments every two and a half miles for the runners. At the finish line, food, music and entertainment await those who are victorious.
Dr. Aloyce Nzuki, Tanzania Tourist Boardโs Managing Director noted, โthe increasing popularity of the Kilimanjaro Marathon is helping Tanzania raise its profile as an international sports tourism destination. The Marathon also brings people of all cultures together in a supporting and friendly atmosphere.โ
There are travel packages available on the Kilimanjaro Marathon website. Whether you want to run the marathon or discover Tanzania, there is a package to fit everyoneโs interest. You can test your physical strength by climbing to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, go on a safari to one of Tanzania’s famous National Parks, or visit the spice islands of Zanzibar.
Kathy Loper of Kathy Loper Events, a California-based tour company specializing in marathons, brings a group of American runners every year to participate in the Kilimanjaro Marathon.
The Kilimanjaro Marathon is sponsored by the Tanzania Tourist Board, Wild Frontiers, Kilimanjaro Premium Lager, Vodacom and Precision Air. Other sponsors include Kilimanjaro Water, DT Dobie, Tanga Cement, KK Security, TPC Limited and Tanzanite One.