Robert Bellarmine Okudi marked his 60th birthday in a unique way when friends from Gutsy Running Club, affiliated with Team Matooke, surprised him with a midnight night run in Mutungo, Kampala.
The celebration, held just before midnight on February 2, 2026, brought together runners for drills and a shared experience that highlighted the growing popularity of night running in Uganda.
Unlike traditional races focused on medals and finish lines, night runs are more about the atmosphere, connection and enjoyment of running under the city lights.
“I have run many races, even outside the country, and I have also taken part in night runs. They are so unique from the usual morning and afternoon races,” Okudi said.
“At night, everything feels different, from the pace to the atmosphere. It becomes less about competition and more about the experience, the rhythm and the people you are sharing it with,” he added.
Okudi is now looking forward to taking part in the upcoming Tusker Lite Neon Run scheduled for May 8 at Circuit Lounge in Kololo, Kampala. The event will start at 6:30 PM and feature both 5km and 10km routes, with participants starting and finishing at the same venue.
“I’m looking forward to the Tusker Lite Neon Run. I believe the entire Gutsy crew will be there. It’s been one of the main topics in our group, and we’re really looking forward to the experience,” he said.
Kathryn Rhoda from Boraruns, who participated in the inaugural Neon Run seven years ago, said she was excited to hear that the event was returning.
“I still remember it like it was yesterday. It was a wonderful experience, and I’m glad that this year’s edition is around the corner,” Rhoda said.
“You rarely get running events that blend both sport and lifestyle, so it’s something everyone looks forward to. The energy, the music and the whole night atmosphere make it feel less like a race and more like a celebration,” she added.
For recreational runner Stephen Gonzaga, who is not attached to any running club, the Neon Run offers an opportunity to connect with other runners while enjoying fitness in a lively social setting.
He said he is eager to be part of an event that combines exercise, music and the unique experience of running at night in Kampala.
Race director Julius Nkuraija, one of the organizers of this year’s Tusker Lite Neon Run, assured participants that the route has been carefully designed with safety in mind.
“The route for the 2026 Tusker Lite Neon Run is very safe, so runners shouldn’t worry about that. Kololo offers a calm and scenic environment, with cool evening breezes and well-planned routes that make for a smooth and enjoyable run,” Nkuraija said.
Tusker Lite Brand Manager Sandra Againe said the brand continues to strengthen its presence in Uganda’s running community by supporting events that blend fitness and lifestyle.
“The Tusker Lite Neon Run is a bit different because it takes a less intense approach compared to traditional races. Preparation is not as demanding as a full marathon, and that makes it more accessible,” Againe said.
“It allows runners to show up, ease into the experience and enjoy the social and energetic side of running without the pressure of performance,” she added.
Registration for the Tusker Lite Neon Run is still open at a fee of Shs20,000, with payments being made through Stanbic FlexiPay.
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