International Peace Marathon in Rwanda - Race Reviews

The marathon consisted of four loops all on paved streets. It was an incredible experience to be able to run a marathon in Rwanda; I definitely would recommend the event to others. The event itself could have used more organization; the start was delayed by an hour and the roads opened up to vehicle traffic after four hours. Although there were water stops along the route, they quickly ran out of water. I would recommend carrying money during the marathon, which saved me and others as I actually had to stop and buy water among the plentiful stores along the way. There was also a lack of public sanitation. With all of the negatives, it was still the most rewarding marathon I have ever completed. In the future I would love to be able to run it again. The organizers took feedback and will be working hard to improve conditions for future runs. I took advantage of the travel deal being offered by the Soroptimist group (co-sponsors of the run) and had an incredible adventure. Very well worth it!

It was my first marathon in Africa, so I can tell you that it was very significant and big day for me. Thanks to all organizers for giving us a chance to run there; however, there are lessons to be learned. 1. They promised water stations three times per lap. Well, at the first station, there was no water, and there were no sponges (which were scattered all around, creating a big obstacle). Same with the second and third station! The guys working at these station did not estimate properly how much water they needed. In the end, people were losing consciousness, falling on the way. 2. Bananas were handed out not in singles, but in whole pieces! Of 10-15 bananas! So local runners were helping themselves without hesitation. 3. On the course and in the stadium, non-runners were walking anywhere they wanted to on the running track. Security and police were useless. 4. Usually after finishing, they give you what you deserve (a medal, t-shirt, or something for a memory); in Kigali, I had to walk to the other side of the stadium to pick up the t-shirt, which was not in my size and had been unfolded already.... :( Good luck on improving it, guys. I would come back for sure!

This sports manifestation can finally bring Rwanda to everybody’s attention in a positive way. This manifestation, eleven years after the cruel genocide in 1994, will give special support to so many widows and orphans, at the occasion of the reconstruction and the peace-process in Rwanda. Our adoption-daughter Imana was also born, eleven years ago, in a refugee camp on the hills outside of Kigali, where the marathon takes place. Imana is a nice symbol for this marathon. She is the living piece of evidence for the senselessness of this war. For she is an orphan-girl of a probably murdered Hutu-father and a died Tutsi-mother. I dedicate this marathon in gratitude to our adoption-daughter, Imana, who is also a good runner, and at the same time to her biological parents. My conscience tells me that I must simply do this. My own father, Romain Truyers (65 years) will also be in Kigali to take part in the funrun for his granddaughter.

This is a great chance to run a marathon and in some way help a troubled country turn the corner. The race itself is really tough - hilly, high (1500 meters altitude), and hot (circa 26 degrees celsius). I have completed NY, London, and Chicago, but was unable to complete this race. But that said, it was pretty well organized and water was available. I just found the sun to be too intense and didn't want to risk it. It was a great chance to see the country and would suggest people come at least a week early to do Gorilla treking and to get used to the altitude and other conditions. Despite not finishing, I have to say it was a great experience.