“The Elgon Marathon is in offing,” those were the words of Saleh Naminya while speaking to the media last weekend in Kasese after running at the second edition of the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon.
Saleh Naminya who runs Casa Uganda Safaris & Lodges is one of the brains behind the idea of Elgon Marathon that is slated for October 2024.
According to Naminya, one the reasons he went to Kasese was to pick lessons that can be applied during Elgon Marathon but as a runner, he also made a contribution to the Rwenzori Marathon in one way or the other.
“Already we have the Elgon Marathon coming in,” Naminya said adding that; “we also look forward to having the Coffee Expo, Cultural Expo and Explore Elgon. So for us, we are picking a leaf from here (Rwenzori Marathon), this is a master class for us that Elgon meeting the Rwenzori, with us we are taking a message back home.”
According to Naminya, marathons are a game changer in promoting domestic tourism as they pull Ugandans and other nationals together at the same place at the same time.
“After the marathon, people are always geared up for game drives and other activities besides the marathon. They also consume products in the area like coffee and the like hence boosting business. I hope other regions pick a leaf from the Rwenzori Marathon,” Nimanya added.
If initiated, the Elgon Marathon will become one of a few events of that will be happening outside Kampala and also one of a few that is held with the aim of promoting tourism and local economies.
Marathons can promote/elevate tourism in the following ways:
- Attracting participants: Marathons often attract participants from different parts of the world, which can boost tourism in the host city. Participants usually bring their friends and family with them to support them during the marathon, which can increase the number of visitors in the city.
- Highlighting the host city: Marathons showcase the host city to the participants and spectators. They offer an opportunity for the city to highlight its attractions, such as historical landmarks, museums, and scenic spots.
- Generating revenue: Marathons generate revenue for the city through registration fees, sponsorships, and other related activities. The revenue can be used to improve the city’s infrastructure, attract more tourists, and promote local businesses.
- Boosting the economy: Marathons bring in business for hotels, restaurants, shops, and other local businesses, which can help boost the local economy.
- Improving the city’s reputation: Hosting a marathon can improve the host city’s reputation as a destination for events and tourism. A well-organized marathon can attract positive media attention, which can increase the city’s visibility and attractiveness as a tourist destination.
