Mtwapa, Kenya — Over 600 cyclists from Kenya and Europe converged at Mawenzi Resort for the annual Mawenzi MTB and Gravel Race, a high-energy event that combined competitive cycling, youth participation, and environmental conservation advocacy.
The riders competed across seven categories, covering distances of up to 72 kilometres for elite athletes, while children aged between four and ten years raced shorter courses ranging from four to ten kilometres. Before the race began, all participants were briefed on the designated routes and safety measures. Four emergency vehicles and two ambulances were on standby throughout the event to ensure riders’ safety.
The race officially flagged off at 7:30 a.m., starting with the Men Veterans category over a 60-kilometre course. Jimmy Kariuki of Spoke Squad Club emerged victorious after clocking 4:03:36. He was followed closely by Anthony Nazareth of Biking Alcoholics Club in second place with 4:04:56, while Yuri Rattansi of Motor Teq Club finished third.
In the Men Under-23 category, Bobb Waithaka took first place with an impressive time of 3:06:01. Samuel Njau of Air Pocket Team secured second position after clocking 3:24:09, with Mlolwa Kenneth finishing third at 3:57:56.
The Under-19 60-kilometre race saw Bram Ruttimann claim top honours in 3:01:59. Ramadhan Hussein of Team Sparks Trust finished second with 3:44:50, while Badi Mohammed of Kilifi Ultimate Bikers placed third after clocking 3:56:23.
In the Masters category over the same distance, Pascal Mwangata emerged first with a time of 3:25:29. Omar Said of Epic Sports followed in second place at 4:38:14, while David Horsey, riding an e-bike, finished third.
The Women’s 60-kilometre category was won by Monica Jelimo of Team Ariya Solar, who clocked 2:55:35. Dinnah Safari of Team Air Pocket finished second with 3:02:05, and Jamila Abdullah of Bicycle Garage secured third place at 4:23:05.
The Elite Men’s 60-kilometre race was dominated by Safari Simbaz riders. Ephantus Gicheru took first place in 2:26:17, followed by Peter Karanja of Bicycle Garage in second at 2:30:31, while Titus Mwangi, also of Safari Simbaz, completed the podium in 2:34:07.
The final and longest race, the 75-kilometre Men’s category, was again claimed by Safari Simbaz. Joseph Nyagah won in 2:35:31, edging out teammate David Kinjah by just one second. Patrick Mugu of Garage Nairobi finished third with a time of 2:50:37.
Beyond competition, the event placed strong emphasis on nurturing young talent. Children as young as four years old participated in short races designed to introduce them to cycling and build confidence from an early age.
Speaking to the media, Mawenzi Hotel Director George Mokua said the hotel partnered with the race organisers to promote environmental conservation by advocating for reduced carbon emissions. He noted that the event has encouraged many youths to embrace cycling as a healthy lifestyle choice, helping them avoid drug abuse and early pregnancies.
Mokua also highlighted challenges facing the hospitality industry due to government policies, adding that innovation is necessary to attract clients. However, he expressed optimism that ongoing infrastructure developments in Mtwapa will boost tourism and hotel businesses.
Race organisers said their goal is to grow the cycling community, citing the numerous health and fitness benefits associated with the sport. One participant, Mustansir Mohamed, shared a personal testimony, saying cycling helped him reduce his weight from 140 kilograms and transform his lifestyle.
Winners in each category received cash prizes, while part of the proceeds from the event will be reinvested back into the local community where the race took place.
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