The long-awaited Mt.Kenya Epik Challenge took place in Naro Moru from 21st November to 24th November. The challenge attracted both experienced and novice riders who were all determined to clinch top spot. Eighteen cyclists, both national and international graced the event. Kenya was well represented by cyclists from various places including Nyeri, Nanyuki, Eldoret and Nairobi. Samuel Mwangi and Joseph Echwa, members of Kenyan Riders, part of an elite team of riders who aim to be the first African team to race in the Tour De France, emerged victorious over the four day event. Renowned Kenyan cyclist David Kinjah was also in attendance as one of the technical organizers of the event and his presence served as motivation for riders who seek to reach the top most levels in cycling.
The four-day challenge was divided into stages and day 1 was the prologue based at Naro Moru which involved a time trial section to determine rider strength and ability. Stage 1 took place on the second day and was an 82km course at Wangu Embori Farm. Over 20 riders registered for this stage and competition was stiff throughout the course. Samuel Mwangi and Joseph Echwa showed great determination to emerge victorious in a time of 3.58.30 ahead of David Kariuki and James Kagema who clocked an impressive 4.23.05. Nicholas Kirima and David Kinyua rounded off the top three registering 4.30.32. The riders enjoyed spectacular scenery during this stage and team ethic was essential for all the participating teams.
Stage 2 was a 66km course at the same Wangu Embori Farm on the third day that saw 12 riders participate. Simon Ketoti and John Kariuki showed great zeal to emerge winners, clocking 2.51.03. Samuel Mwangi and Joseph Echwa again proved to be no pushovers as they emerged second in 3.06.10. David Kariuki and James Kagema settled for third in 3.31.16.
Two solo cyclists also participated in this stage, Nicholas Kirima and Robert Wachira, finishing in sixth and seventh respectively. By this stage, Samuel Mwangi and Joseph Echwa were still top of the overall standings having posted impressive results in both stages though the rest of the riders knew they had to put in extra effort to topple the duo.
Stage 3 took place on the last day and all riders were geared up for the ultimate battle for supremacy at the Naro Moru River Lodge. Adrenaline was high and all riders knew they had to bring their ‘A’ game to the 75km course to have any chance of getting to the podium. Simon Ketoti and John Kariuki began from where they had left off and put in an excellent performance to emerge winners in 2.17.40. Samuel Mwangi and Joseph Echwa once again showed their prowess by coming in second with an impressive 2.23.45. Raymond Muchiri and Takuya Haigwara came in third clocking 2.43.15, much to the delight of the supporters who had been treated to four days of high energy competition and action packed events. After tallying all the results, Samuel Mwangi and Joseph Echwa emerged overall winners with 10.31.05 while impressive duo Simon Ketoti and John Kariuki came in second with 11.02.04. Raymond Muchiri and Takuya Haigwara wrapped up the podium places with a time of 12.40.53.
The Mt. Kenya Epik Challenge was a great success with most participants commending the efforts of the organizers and the spirit of sportsmanship that was evident throughout. There was some time built for social activities and relaxation, including a bonfire at night at the Embori Campsite. There was also a guided tour of the new Mountaining Biking Trail Ride being developed at Naro Moru River Lodge as well as a walk through the Embori Farm.
The event also attracted two Norwegian cyclists, Rolf Helge and Tor Anders. The duo are bike enthusiasts and are linked to the second biggest cycling event in Norway and have begun negotiations on future biking partnerships with Mt. Kenya Epik, which could see Kenyan bikers get the opportunity to ply their trade in Norway and vice-versa. This would greatly benefit the riders in terms of experience since they will be exposed to different terrain and climatic conditions plus it would go a long way in putting Kenya in the world map as far as tourism and cycling are concerned.