Inside the High-Stakes Rehearsal for the Lewa Safari Marathon
It was all hands on deck this Tuesday at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy as preparations intensified for the Lewa Safari Marathon. To ensure one of the world’s most distinctive endurance events goes off without a hitch, the team conducted a comprehensive dry run which serves as a full-scale rehearsal of race day operations.
This process allowed us to simulate the entire event under real conditions, moving the team from a state of planning to total operational readiness. By pressure testing our systems now, we can identify and rectify potential issues while there is still time, ensuring every gear in the machine is primed for action.
During the dry run, we verified the timekeeping software to guarantee that every runner’s chip captures results with absolute accuracy. The exercise also allowed us to test race dynamics, specifically how our systems handle shifts in runner flow and transitions across the course. These rigorous simulations sharpened our ability to monitor for course deviations and manage the logistics for participants who may need to withdraw. Most importantly, every department synchronised their efforts to confirm our teams are fully prepared for when the starting whistle blows.
Organised in partnership with Tusk, the Lewa Safari Marathon has spent over 25 years running for a cause that goes far beyond sport. Since its inception, this event has raised nearly 9 million USD. These funds directly support conservation, healthcare, education, and community development across Kenya’s wildlife landscapes.
By pressure testing our operations today, we guarantee a world-class experience for our runners and a lasting impact for the communities and wildlife we protect. The stage is set and the systems are primed.
Race categories and course experience
The event features four race categories: a full marathon of 42.2km, a half marathon of 21.1km, an executive 10km race, and a children’s 5km race. Each route follows carefully marked conservancy roads with water stations, medical support, and ranger patrols positioned every 2.5km to ensure safety in a wild and dynamic environment.
As final preparations continue, the message remains clear. The Lewa Safari Marathon is not only a test of endurance but also a celebration of 26 years of conservation and community partnership, where every step taken contributes to protecting wildlife and supporting people who live alongside it.
