Eighteen teams from six universities are set to compete in the Grand Finale of the varsity competition, Open Lanes, on Saturday at Nyayo Stadium.
The finalists will go head-to-head in a day of high-energy track action as they seek to complete their Open Lanes journey and claim bragging rights for their teams and institutions.
Beyond the title, four standout student-athletes will earn an all-expenses-paid trip to compete in South Africa’s elite running circuit.
The opportunity will allow the students to test themselves in a new competitive environment, experience South Africa’s running culture and create lasting memories beyond the university circuit.
Qualification for the finals followed a series of knockout competitions held at Riara University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), and the University of Nairobi, where student-athletes battled for places in the Grand Finale.
On Director of Africa Navalayo Osembo said: “We have witnessed incredible energy and dedication throughout the knockout stages and are proud to have introduced the Open Lanes concept to our campuses.
“As we look forward to the finals, we encourage all participants to step forward and do their best, and the fans to join us and witness the athletes compete alongside a day of energy, music and entertainment. Entry is free,” Osembo added.
The brand established itself in the Kenyan market through partnerships with local runners and communities, including We Run Nairobi. Through these initiatives, it has connected with a new generation that views running not only as a sport, but also as a lifestyle, a source of connection and a means of self-expression.
In 2025, the two partners organised a community run at Windsor Golf Club that attracted more than 500 runners, reflecting the growing appetite for accessible social running experiences in the city.
The brand has also partnered with several Kenyan stars, including marathoner Hellen Obiri, mountain runner Patrick Kipngeno and Mercy Chepngeno, among others, as part of its efforts to support African athletes across disciplines and at different stages of their careers.
The support was further reinforced by the recent signing of South African 400m star and World U20 champion Lythe Pillay, who became the first professional athlete to join On’s global athlete roster.
As On continues to establish its presence in Africa, the brand aims to build an ecosystem around movement and storytelling while creating an environment where young athletes can compete, connect and be seen. This reinforces its commitment to supporting the development of African running culture.
Kenya’s growing role in the brand’s African footprint is expected to be important in its next chapter. The country’s strong sporting culture, growing digital penetration and youthful market present opportunities to deepen connections with wider communities.
