LOOP brings tree planting into the heart of its Safari Gravel Series
The LOOP Safari Gravel Series has planted 3,500 trees this year as part of its environmental conservation programme, following the third round of the 2026 cycling series held in Vipingo over the weekend.
Organisers planted 100 trees during the Vipingo event, bringing the total number of trees planted through the series to more than 7,000 across its three editions.
The initiative was incorporated into the cycling event as LOOP seeks to link the Safari Gravel Series with environmental conservation efforts in the communities where the races are held.
“For us, the Safari Gravel Series is about creating experiences that go beyond the race. Every ride presents an opportunity to contribute positively to the communities and environments in which we operate. Planting 3,500 trees this year, and more than 7,000 across the three editions of the series, reflects our commitment to making sustainability an integral part of the LOOP experience. As we look ahead to the next edition, we will continue to find meaningful ways to put our purpose into action,” said Erick Muriuki, LOOP DFS CEO.
The Vipingo round attracted elite, amateur and recreational cyclists who competed in 105km, 55km and 30km races.
Uganda’s Jordan Schleck retained his men’s 105km title after completing the course in 3:31:59. Kenya’s Bernard Njoroge finished second in 3:36:44, followed by Billy Mangwana in 4:08:07.
In the women’s 105km race, Uganda’s Mary Aleper successfully defended her title in 4:42:24. Kenya’s Alice Miring’u was second in 5:24:19, while Mercy Eregae finished third in 5:51:51.
The 55km men’s race produced one of the closest finishes of the day, with Lance Kangangi beating Aarif Mohamed by one second. Kangangi recorded 2:45:50, while Mohamed finished in 2:45:51. James Njagu was third in 2:46:25.
Jecinta Wanjiru won the women’s 55km race in 3:19:08, narrowly beating Jecinta Njoki, who finished one second later. Joy Ismael placed third.
In the 30km races, Peter Kamonye won the men’s category in 1:40:24, while Nadia Ibrahimji took the women’s title in 1:46:25.
Black Mamba won the team competition and received KES 125,000, with Ariya Finergy Solar Vortex finishing second and Team Joy Riders third.
The Vipingo race was the third round of the 2026 LOOP Safari Gravel Series after earlier events in Limuru and Naivasha.
The final round is scheduled for October, with the venue expected to be selected through a vote by participating riders.
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