4,000 international runners expected at Access Bank Lagos City Marathon – Organisers

Lagos, Jan. 17, 2024

No fewer than 4000 international  runners are expected to participate in the 10th edition of Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, organisers said on Friday.

Kola Daniels,  Special Assistant to the Director General (D-G) of the National Sports Commission (NSC), said this in a statement in Lagos

He disclosed that the special 10th edition tagged ‘Love in the Air’ would hold  on Feb. 15.

“The countdown has begun for the 10th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, set to take place on Saturday, Feb. 15 in Lagos.

“As the marathon celebrates a decade of excellence, the Gold Label Race holds bigger promises, drawing a global audience.

“With 4,000 foreign runners and nearly 100 international elite athletes expected to participate, the streets of Lagos will come alive with the spirit of competition and unity, on Feb. 15, one day after Valentine’s Day.

“The marathon, renowned as one of Africa’s largest, is proudly supported by Access Bank, 7UP Bottling Company, Kia Motors, Airtel, and the Lagos State Government,” he said.

Daniels added: “While February might be winter in other parts of the world, Lagos is looking to bring the heat with its vibrant energy and world-class hospitality.

“Whether one is running, cheering, or soaking in the sporting and festive atmosphere, the 10th edition of this race promises to be an unforgettable experience,” he said.

NAN reports that Kenyan runner, Bernard Sang, emerged the winner of the 2024 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, after clocking a time of 02:16:49.

The 32-year-old outran 80 others in the 9th edition of the race to win the 42km  marathon, clinching  the $50,000 dollar prize money.

The East Africans dominated the race as two other Kenyans, Simon Cheprot and Edwin Kiptoo, came second and third, with cash prizes of $40,000 and $30,000 respectively.

The Kenyans won the marathon in 2016, 2017, 2020 and 2021.

Also, 25-year-old Ethiopian, Kebene Chala, crossed the finish line to emerge winner of the women category

While Shehu Muazu, the first Nigerian to cross the finish line, went home with  N1 million cash prize.