Ugandan athletes who participated in the 2026 Comrades Marathon were celebrated during the latest Kampala–Entebbe Run, as Tusker Lite joined Team Matooke to honour their achievements and promote the growth of long-distance running in the country.
The Kampala–Entebbe Run, traditionally organised on the second Sunday of every month, brings together runners from different clubs who use the route between Kampala and Entebbe for training, fitness and preparation for endurance races.
This month’s edition was held on June 21, a week later than the usual schedule, to accommodate athletes returning from the 2026 Comrades Marathon held on June 14 in South Africa.
More than 60 Ugandan runners took part in the iconic ultramarathon, with the majority successfully completing the demanding 99th edition, known as the Up Run. The race covered approximately 86 kilometres from Durban City Hall to Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg.
Tusker Lite, through its support of the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon, was among the brands that activated at the Comrades Marathon, offering runners support at the 25-kilometre mark in Kloof. The team provided water, glucose, first aid assistance and encouragement to athletes tackling one of the race’s toughest sections.
The activation also promoted the fifth edition of the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon, scheduled for August 22, 2026, in Kasese.
The Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon has gained increased significance for athletes pursuing international ultramarathon ambitions after being recognised as a Label Road Race and added to the World Athletics calendar. The recognition has enabled the event to become a qualifier for the Comrades Marathon and other races in the same category, giving Ugandan athletes an opportunity to qualify for major competitions locally.
Janet Nakkazi, the Comrades Marathon Ambassador in Uganda, said the development will make it easier for local athletes to pursue global opportunities.
“Initially, we had to qualify from outside the country, but now things will be much easier because we have an opportunity to qualify here at home. I believe that for the Comrades Marathon’s 100th anniversary next year, we will have more than 100 Ugandans participating,” Nakkazi said.
In Entebbe, Tusker Lite partnered with Team Matooke to welcome and celebrate Uganda’s Comrades Marathon participants as part of its continued support for active lifestyles and the country’s growing running community.
The Kampala–Entebbe Run also provided athletes with an opportunity to build endurance and maintain momentum ahead of the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon in August.
Sandra Againe, Tusker Lite Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Limited, said the brand remains committed to supporting Uganda’s running community.
“Runners are a key pillar in the growth of road running in Uganda, and we are proud to support a community that continues to inspire more people to embrace active lifestyles. Running events are gaining momentum across the country, and for the Comrades Marathon participants, it was inspiring to see them Own The Lite even miles away from home,” Againe said.
She added that the brand looks forward to seeing more athletes participate in the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon.
Some of the athletes shared their experiences from the Comrades Marathon, highlighting the discipline, preparation and mental strength required to complete one of the world’s most challenging ultramarathons.
Garry Mabonga, one of the Ugandan athletes who completed the race, described the experience as demanding but rewarding.
“Wow, what an experience. It was truly worth it. I prepared thoroughly, and that is what helped me reach the finish line. The different terrains, the climbs and the sheer distance make it one of the toughest races in the world. But the atmosphere, the support from fellow runners and the sense of accomplishment at the finish line make every kilometre worthwhile,” Mabonga said.
