The Kaptagat Cycling Challenge has evolved beyond a cycling competition, bringing together elite sport, environmental conservation and community empowerment in an event that continues to grow in national significance.
Held in the scenic highlands of Kaptagat in Elgeyo Marakwet County, the race attracted cyclists from across Kenya, including para cyclists, whose inspiring performances underscored the event’s commitment to inclusivity while advancing forest restoration efforts through the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP).
The Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme Patron and Principal Secretary at the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, said the challenge has evolved into a platform where every kilometer covered contributes to restoring the Kaptagat Forest and inspires cyclists from across the country to give back to nature.
“The Kaptagat Cycling Challenge is far more than a race. It is a celebration of purpose where sport, forest restoration and community livelihoods come together in one extraordinary experience,” said Dr. Kiptoo.
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As the conservation marks its 10th anniversary during this edition, KICP is set to unveil an ambitious “10 to 20” vision aimed at doubling the programme’s impact over the next decade.
Among last year’s event standout performers were para cyclists Felistas Kaveva and her pilot Alice Miringo, who claimed first place in the women’s tandem category after conquering the demanding 80-kilometre course.
Felistas, who gradually lost her eyesight over time, says the victory represented far more than a sporting achievement. “I was born with sight, and I loved cycling. My vision slowly faded until it could no longer help me, but I was not ready to give up,” she said.
She noted that after learning about tandem riding for visually impaired athletes, she searched for a pilot before eventually teaming up with Alice.
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On a tandem bicycle, Alice controls the steering from the front while Felistas, riding behind as the stoker, provides much of the pedalling power. “I cannot do it alone. It takes teamwork,” Felistas said. “She controls the bike while I keep pushing with all my strength. We communicate throughout the race.”
The challenging terrain, characterised by steep climbs and fast descents through the Kaptagat landscape, tested the pair beyond anything they had experienced in other shorter races.
“There were mountains and many ups and downs. I kept asking Alice how much further we had to go, and she kept encouraging me that we were almost there. I just kept pushing until we reached the finish,” she recalled.
The success of the Kaptagat Cycling Challenge reinforced its growing reputation as an event where sporting excellence, environmental stewardship and social inclusion ride together, proving that every kilometre cycled can leave a lasting impact both on the road and in the forest.
