Registration for the fourth edition of the Kenya Airways Masai Mara Marathon kicked off yesterday with the organisers targeting over 3,000 runners. This will be a higher target compared to last years entry that attracted 2,400 runners. The race will be held on September 22 while registration will be closed on September 1. Two categories are lined up for the interested runners including the 21km race and the 5km family fun run. Charges for the fun runners in the 21km are Sh5,000 per person, elite runners will part with Sh300 while local runners will pay a fee of Sh100.

Winners in the elite category will take home Sh250,000 (both men and women). The 5km run will only have fun and local runners and corporate teams which will be required to enter 10 athletes each with five to score in the hunt for a Sh180, 000 prize. Kenya Airways commercial director Mohan Chandaria said they are also targeting to raise a higher figure as opposed to last year where Sh1.4m was raised. "We have engaged professionals to manage this year's marathon," said Mohan. "We want to assure those wishing to participate that this year's event will be more memorable.

Mohan added that the money raised last year is currently being used to build a dormitory at Lemunyak Girls secondary school in Mara North Conservancy. The event is held annually to raise funds for development activities in communities around the larger Masai Mara National Park in areas of education, water, health, sanitation and security.