Kenyan Athletes Awarded Live Geese after Winning Chinese Marathon

Two Kenyan athletes were amazed after receiving live geese as prizes for winning a marathon in China.

Mathew Kiprotich and Naomi Kakoko, who emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s categories, were each awarded a live goose upon completing the race. This practice is deeply rooted in the provincial heritage of Anhui. This unique award comes from a centuries-old cultural tradition where white geese symbolize fidelity and prosperity. Race organizers articulated the gesture as more than a mere prize, describing it as “a little bit of our heart.”

Despite the practical challenges of transporting live poultry internationally, the organizers have steadfastly maintained this cultural practice for three consecutive years, even as international athletes have consistently dominated the competition. The unexpected award presented immediate logistical complications for the winners. Kakoko openly expressed her surprise and uncertainty about managing her prize, ultimately deciding to sell the goose to a local resident for 50 Yuan, equivalent to approximately 900 Kenyan shillings.

Kiprotich followed a similar approach, opting to sell his awarded goose. In total, 18 runners received geese. Beyond the distinctive live animal awards, the marathon maintained traditional recognition methods, presenting trophies, medals, and additional prizes to the top three male and female competitors. This practice is not entirely unprecedented; the Bulloise Bullfight race in Switzerland similarly awards winners with live cattle, which are subsequently returned to farms and symbolically named after the victorious athletes.

Meanwhile, the Valencia Marathon on December 1 is attracting attention, as four Kenyan runners aim to set new records and potentially earn a massive prize of around Sh135 million. The organizers have promised a reward of one million Euros, equivalent to about Ksh 134,900,000, for any runner who breaks the world record at this event.