LOOP Safari Gravel Series Heads to Vipingo for Thrilling Coastal Showdown
By Joy Neema
Nairobi, 04 August 2026: The 2026 LOOP Safari Gravel Series heads to Kenya’s coastline later this month with the third leg of the series set for Saturday, 29th August at the Vipingo Ridge in Kilifi County.
Following two successful rounds in Limuru and Naivasha, the series now shifts to one of the country’s most scenic cycling destinations, where over 500 cyclists are expected to compete across the 30km, 55km and 105km race categories, with registration now open.
The winning team will take home KES 125,000 while the second and third-placed teams will receive KES 100,000 and KES 70,000, respectively. The top five finishers in the elite 120-kilometre race for both men and women set to claim cash prizes of KES 20,000, KES 15,000, KES 10,000, KES 7,000, and KES 5,000, respectively.
The event is set to attract elite competitors from across the East Africa region and beyond, amateur riders and recreational cyclists, continuing the series’ mission of growing gravel cycling in Kenya by providing world-class racing experiences accessible to riders of all abilities.
Uganda’s Jordan Schleck, who won the 2024 and 2025 editions of the race held at Vipingo will be looking to continue his dominance at the Coastal Course by making it three out of three wins despite having a tough outing this season where he is yet to win a leg of the competition.
Troy Barrie, Coordinator of The Amani Project, said the Vipingo edition reflects the series’ commitment to showcasing Kenya’s diverse landscapes while expanding opportunities for local cyclists.
“Each stop on the LOOP Safari Gravel Series offers riders a completely different experience, and Vipingo is no exception. From the coastal climate to the unique terrain, this race presents a fresh challenge while bringing together cyclists from across Kenya and beyond. Beyond competition, the series is about building a vibrant cycling community and demonstrating that Kenya has some of the most spectacular gravel riding destinations anywhere in the world.”
In Naivasha, Claudette Nyirarukundo of Rwanda and Uganda’s Lawrence Lorot emerged as the champions of the Women’s and Men’s 100KM races respectively after dramatic photo-finish conclusions.
Nyirarukundo crossed the line in the Women’s 100KM in 4:16:52, narrowly defeating Sarah Diekmeyer by one second (4:16:53). Theresa Rindler completed the women’s podium in 4:27:23.
In the Men’s 100KM, the 21-year-old Lorot powered to victory in 3:29:04, with Stanley Ngugi a hair’s breadth behind at 3:29:05. Ivan Kipruto rounded out the top three with a time of 3:29:22.
The LOOP Safari Gravel Series is organised by The Amani Project, an initiative dedicated to developing and supporting cycling talent across East Africa, with LOOP Digital Financial Services as the title sponsor, in partnership with Vipingo Ridge and the Kenya Cycling Federation.
