By Robert Mutasi 
Absa Bank Kenya has launched the inaugural Absa City Run – Eldoret Edition, positioning the Home of Champions as the first host city in a new initiative aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, community engagement and recreational running.
The event, scheduled for Sunday, November 1, 2026, forms part of the bank’s centenary celebrations, marking 100 years of partnership with customers and communities in the region.
The Absa Eldoret City Run will bring together families, fitness enthusiasts, running clubs and residents of all ages, with participants encouraged to walk, jog or run at their own pace.
The event will feature three categories: 3KM, 5KM and 10KM, and participation will be free and open to the public. Elite athletes are also expected to take part in the 10KM race, highlighting Eldoret’s international reputation for producing world-class runners while inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Speaking during the official launch, Absa Bank Kenya Eldoret Regional Manager Timothi Kosgey said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to celebrating its longstanding relationship with the region while promoting wellness and community participation.
Kosgey said the bank had supported generations of customers, businesses and communities in pursuing their ambitions over the past century, adding that the City Run would provide an opportunity for residents to celebrate their shared identity through physical activity.
He urged residents to turn out in large numbers, saying the event was designed to accommodate participants of different ages and fitness levels.
The City Run series builds on Absa’s existing investment in Kenyan athletics through flagship competitions such as the Absa Sirikwa Classic and the Absa Kip Keino Classic. The new initiative seeks to extend the bank’s support beyond elite competition by encouraging ordinary Kenyans to embrace recreational running and healthier lifestyles.
In 2026, Absa has invested KSh 60 million in Kenya’s athletics calendar, including KSh 35 million towards Athletics Kenya competitions and events. The bank also maintains a partnership with marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge as part of its broader commitment to supporting athletics, from grassroots participation to international competition.
The Eldoret City Run will be preceded by other centenary activities, including customer appreciation visits, community engagements and the Absa @100 Golf Tournament scheduled for Saturday, October 31.
Members of the public seeking registration details can visit Absa Bank Kenya’s official Facebook and Instagram pages or visit the Absa Eldoret Branch for assistance.
The inaugural event is expected to bring residents together in a celebration of fitness, community spirit and Eldoret’s enduring legacy as the Home of Champions.
Baraka Simba 
Eldoret Leo