Garissa University Memorial Race postponed

Lack of sponsorship has forced Athletics Kenya North Eastern Branch to cancel the much awaited fourth edition of the Garissa University Memorial 10km Road Race, which was set for April 2.

The race, was part of the major activities to take place in memory of 148 students were killed by terror group Al Shabab at the University.

Branch Chairman Abdulahi Salat has regretted the unfortunate turn of the event as the race has been a stepping stone to many athletes from the region to showcase their talent.

“We have tried our best to find a sponsor from cooperate organizations to the local government, but unfortunately we have been unable to secure one. We therefore have no alternative but to cancel postpone it,” Salat told Royal Media’s Radio Citizen.

“Last year we attracted more than 200 athletes most from outside this area but you could tell the interest of the local ones had grown significantly for this year’s edition. A Ksh. 100,000 incentive was set aside for the winner men and women, a figure that increased the interest. Many can’t believe we have cancelled the event, some are calling us in disbelief from as far as North Rift region,” added Salat.
The race was also to be used to educate and promote security issues in Garissa area as well as remember the departed students.