Enock Kipkemboi wins 2026 Nairobi City Marathon
By Joel Masibo, June 7, 2026Enock Kipkemboi emerged victorious in the men’s 42-kilometre race at the 2026 Nairobi City Marathon, producing a strong performance to secure the top spot on the podium on Sunday, June 7, 2026.
Kipkemboi crossed the finish line in a time of 2 hours, 9 minutes and 32 seconds to claim the prestigious title ahead of a highly competitive field that delivered a thrilling battle for honours.
The race remained closely contested until the final stages, with Robert Kipkorir Kwambai finishing second after clocking 2:09:51. Kwambai pushed hard throughout the marathon but ultimately settled for the silver medal, just 19 seconds behind the winner.
Shadrack Kenduiywo completed the podium places after recording a time of 2:09:55. Kenduiywo’s effort ensured an all-Kenyan podium in one of the country’s premier road-running events, finishing only four seconds behind Kwambai in a tightly fought contest for second place.
The narrow gap separating the top three athletes highlighted the intense competition witnessed during the race, with less than half a minute separating gold and bronze positions.
The Nairobi City Marathon continues to attract some of the country’s finest distance runners, providing a platform for athletes to showcase their talent on the capital city’s streets while competing for top honours and prize money.
Men’s 42km podium results
Enock Kipkemboi – 2:09:32 (Gold)
Robert Kipkorir Kwambai – 2:09:51 (Silver)
Shadrack Kenduiywo – 2:09:55 (Bronze)
The fifth edition of the Nairobi City Marathon witnessed over 17,000 participants having registered for the current edition; this race once again is a testament to the love and passion Kenyans have developed for sports.
For 42km-1,750 registered while 21km had 5,050 participants. 10km and 5km had 6,550 and 4,100 participants respectively.
Commenting on the event, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi said; ”This is the power of sports; to bring thousands together to run for a course; to keep fit and to celebrate our diversity, talent and togetherness. This is Kenya transformed.”