Under the heavy coastal humidity and unpredictable crosswinds of Kilifi County, six riders representing the Strathmore University Cycling Club took on the brutal 55km terrain at the Loop Safari Gravel Cycle Series.

Featuring a tight-knit squad, including Dennis Odete, Emmanuel Chirchir and Nelson Mandela from Strathmore Business School (SBS), Richard Wanjohi from @iLabAfrica Research and Innovation Centre, Francis Mukhwana and one female rider, Irene Maitha, a recent Masters graduate/Research Scholar at iLabAfrica and SU alumnus, the team set out to push beyond their day-to-day work engagements and executive strategy into the raw elements of sports endurance.

The 55km route along the Swahili Coast is known for its deceptive difficulty. Leaving the start line at Vipingo Ridge, the team faced loose, sandy trails, technical ascents, and relentless sun, compounded by gusty winds blowing off the Indian Ocean. Every kilometre required clear communication, tactical pacing, and shared resilience, core tenets nurtured both on campus and within Strathmore University’s culture.

Despite equipment challenges and the punishing heat, all six riders crossed the finish line among the official finishers, exemplifying the Strathmore spirit: excellence, tenacity, and teamwork.

“Gravel racing isn’t just about legs and lungs; it’s about mental fortitude and adapting when conditions get tough,” noted the team lead. “Having five gents and one lady pushing each other through the dust and heat to ensure we all finished together captured everything our university stands for.”

The Vipingo spectacle drew elite competitors from across East Africa alongside ambitious recreational riders, all lining up to tackle the demanding 105km, 55km, and 30km routes. Strathmore University, through the Wellness Department and the SU Cycling Club, was privileged to be part of the cycling enthusiasts on the coast for this leg.

Beyond the immediate thrill of the competition, the event reflected the broader mission of the LOOP Safari Gravel Series: accelerating the growth of gravel cycling in Kenya while building accessible, high-calibre competitive platforms for riders at every stage of their athletic journey.

As part of the SU Wellness Club, the SU Cycling Club continues to foster leadership, wellness, and competitive drive, proving that Strathmore’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond the university corridors onto Kenya’s toughest sporting arenas.

Serving as the crucial third leg of the 2026 LOOP Safari Gravel Series, Vipingo raised the stakes following high-altitude battles in Limuru and the fast, dusty trails of Naivasha. With the coastal heat now behind us, all eyes turn toward the series finale in Nanyuki this coming October, an extra-special capstone where the national cycling community concludes this year’s circuit.

Article written by Richard Wajohi, @iLabAfrica Research and Innovation Centre, Partnerships and Industry Relations Lead.