100 International Elite Athletes Set to Compete at 10th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon
The 10th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is set to welcome approximately 100 international elite athletes from around the world. Runners from Kenya, Ethiopia, Morocco, and several other countries are expected to arrive in Nigeria on February 13th ahead of the highly anticipated race, which takes place on February 15th.
Speaking about the landmark event, Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, emphasized that this year’s marathon marks a decade of excellence and will be a celebration of sportsmanship and endurance.
“We are eagerly anticipating the arrival of international athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Morocco, Eritrea, France, Uganda, Italy, and Ghana. In total, we expect over 4,000 foreign runners, including 100 elite competitors. Both Nilayo Sports Management and the Lagos Sports Commission are committed to ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for everyone involved.”
She added that the streets of Lagos will come alive with an electrifying mix of competition, unity, and festivity just a day after Valentine’s Day. Whether participants are running, cheering, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the 10th edition of the Lagos City Marathon promises to be unforgettable.
A Look Back at the 2024 Marathon
The 9th edition of the marathon saw Kenyan runner Bernard Sang emerge victorious in the 42km race, clocking 02:16:49 to secure the $50,000 grand prize. The East Africans dominated the event, with fellow Kenyans Simon Cheprot and Edwin Kiptoo finishing second and third, earning $40,000 and $30,000, respectively. Kenya has maintained a stronghold over the marathon, with victories in 2016, 2017, 2020, and 2021.
In the women’s category, 25-year-old Ethiopian Kebene Chala clinched the title after a remarkable performance, further cementing the rivalry between Kenyan and Ethiopian long-distance runners.
With top-tier athletes, intense competition, and an electrifying atmosphere, the 10th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling editions yet.