The second edition of the Gulu City Marathon, held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, proved to be a massive success, bringing Northern Uganda to life under the theme, “Running for Culture and Heritage.”
Close to 2,000 participants gathered at the historical Kaunda Grounds, the official start and finish venue, in what was a festive atmosphere of sport, networking, and cultural celebration.
Andiema Defends Title as Champions Emerge
The 42KM Full Marathon, flagged off by Ambassador Olara Otunnu, was the highlight of the day. Allan Andiema of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) successfully defended his 2024 title, crossing the line first in the Men’s 42KM race.
In the ladies’ full marathon, the top honor went to Joy Roberts. The podium finishes across all major categories showcased the best of Ugandan athleticism:
Full Marathon (42KM)
Men’s Winner: Allan Andiema
Women’s Winner: Joy Roberts.
Half Marathon (21KM)
Men’s Winner: Peter Akwech
Women’s Winner: Evas Nasasira
10KM Race
Men’s Winner: Laban Kibet
Women’s Winner: Farida Donia
Wheelchair Race
Men’s Winner: Richard Ocira
Women’s Winner: Polline Acayo
Top Performers Bag Cash, Air Tickets, and Goodies
The marathon was not just about the medals; top performers walked away with significant rewards:
Cash Prizes: The winners of the main 42KM marathon (male and female) each took home a staggering UGX 3,000,000.
The 21KM winners received UGX 1,500,000 each, while the wheelchair champions were awarded UGX 1,000,000 each.
Air Tickets: In a unique and exciting gesture, several top performers were awarded Uganda Airlines air tickets following a transparent raffle draw.
Air ticket recipients included 10KM women’s winner Farida Donia, 21KM women’s winner Evas Nasasira, and 21KM men’s winner Peter Akwech.
Community Impact: The event’s benefits will extend far beyond the finish line, as 10% of all proceeds are designated to support the Martin Aliker Youth Skilling Centre in Abole, Omoro District.
Wheelchair winner Richard Ocira expressed his gratitude: “I thank the organizing committee. Now, we were able to run too, win money and other prizes. We are humbled and may this race take place every year.”
The event was graced by various dignitaries, including Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Hon. Norbert Mao and Uganda’s middle-distance star athlete, Halima Nakaayi, who flagged off the Half Marathon.
Following the successful run, attention immediately turned to the future, with the organizers officially announcing that the third edition of the Gulu City Marathon is already marked on the calendar for December 5, 2026.
