Anthony Wafula Completes Amsterdam Marathon to Support Olkeri Primary School

Anthony Wafula, a 48-year-old recreational runner from Kenya, has successfully completed the TCS Amsterdam Marathon, crossing the finish line in 3 hours and 40 minutes. This achievement marked his third attempt at completing a marathon, with previous attempts thwarted by injury and bad weather. Wafula's accomplishment is a testament to his dedication and perseverance, having trained for 13 weeks prior to the event.

Wafula's journey into running began during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he and members of his Rotary club would hike Ngong Hills to escape cabin fever. His group later transitioned to climbing mountains, including Mt Kenya and Mt Kilimanjaro. Running was initially a way to build endurance for these adventures. After summiting Kilimanjaro, his group decided to take on the challenge of a marathon, starting with the 2022 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.

Wafula's completion of the Amsterdam Marathon was not just a personal achievement but also a charitable endeavor. He represented the Rotary Club of Ngong Hills, aiming to raise funds for Olkeri Primary School in Kajiado County. The school, with a population of over 500 pupils, requires improved early-childhood classrooms and sanitation facilities. Wafula's fundraising campaign had raised Sh260,624 towards the $10,000 target by Tuesday noon.

The Rotary Club of Ngong Hills identified Olkeri Primary School as a priority after its headteacher, who had helped transform Arap Moi Primary School in Rongai, reached out for support. Club members assessed the school's needs and spoke with stakeholders to determine the best course of action. Wafula's involvement in the project is part of his broader commitment to community development, which has included work in non-profit, broadcasting, and international development.

Wafula's running journey has not been without challenges. He estimates that a full training cycle requires significant investment in equipment, including shoes, running kit, gels, and supplements. Additionally, recreational runners like Wafula face safety concerns, including mugging, harassment, and inadequate infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, Wafula remains committed to his running routine, citing the motivation of improving his health and supporting causes he cares about.

Wafula's experience as a recreational runner reflects a growing trend in Kenya. A 2021 World Athletics study found that 13 per cent of runners surveyed had started running during the first pandemic year, while 22 per cent said they ran more often because of Covid-19. As the recreational running community continues to grow, Wafula and others like him face challenges related to infrastructure and safety.

In addition to his running accomplishments, Wafula has had a distinguished career in international development, broadcasting, and non-profit work. He has worked with organizations such as Radio Waumini, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, Internews, and Hivos. Currently, he serves as chief of strategy and partnerships at Amplify Girls Africa and undertakes private communication work. Wafula's achievements in running and community development have earned him recognition, including his role as Past President of the Rotary Club of Ngong Hills.

Key points

• Wafula completed the Amsterdam Marathon in 3 hours 40 minutes, fulfilling his goal to raise funds for Olkeri Primary School.