David and Kumah Victorious In Maiden Eastern Marathon
David Nakousi and Ekuwin Kumah were victorious in the maiden edition of the Eastern Marathon 2025 in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The serene and picturesque Aburi Botanical Gardens was transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement and athleticism on Saturday, 30 August 2025, during the highly anticipated third edition of the Eastern Walk, organized by Lyf Arena.
The event, which saw an incredible turnout of hundreds of sports enthusiasts, families, and community members, was further elevated this year by the inaugural launch of the Eastern Marathon, a competitive initiative designed to identify and nurture the next generation of long-distance running stars.
The day’s activities featured both a 5km and a 10km run/walk, challenging participants with the scenic but demanding terrain of the Aburi Mountains. The races commenced at Ayi Mensah, with the 5km route concluding at Gyakanma and the more grueling 10km journey culminating at the iconic Aburi Botanical Gardens in the Akuapem South District.
The event garnered significant royal and institutional support, with the Paramount Chief of the Akuapem Traditional Area, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, the Kurontihene of Akropong, Nana Boafo Ansah III, and the Director General of the National Sports Authority, Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, all participating in the walk from start to finish.
Victory on the Mountain: Winners Crowned
The challenging climb up the Aburi Mountains truly tested the endurance and mental fortitude of the athletes. The stunning natural backdrop and the enthusiastic cheers from fans lining the route created an electrifying atmosphere, especially as runners pushed toward the finish line.
Top finishers across all categories were rewarded with souvenirs from sponsors for their impressive performances:
· 5km Female: Tuolong Reina (High Morale Athletics Academy) led the pack with a time of 21:23, followed by teammate Alice Saayirtuo (25:30). Candis Cornan (Legon) secured third place with a time of 50:12.
· 5km Male: Ziem Festus (High Morale Athletics Academy) claimed first place in 20:53. He was followed by Philip Quaicoo (Legon, 21:43) and Henry Nartey (Akosombo, 22:07).
· 10km Female: Ekuwin Kumah (High Morale Athletics Academy) emerged victorious with a strong time of 46:25. Teammate Banganwor Hannah took second (48:38), while Aminu Nasibu finished third (50:31).
· 10km Male: David Nakousi won the ultimate prize, conquering the course in 36:55. Abudu Sulemana placed second (39:07), and Koba Sixtus finished third (41:25).
A Pledge for the Future of Sports
In a speech at the event, the Director General of the National Sports Authority, Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, commended Lyf Arena for organizing a flawless and impactful event. He pledged the Authority’s continued support for such community-driven initiatives aimed at developing raw talent into future national sports stars.
Echoing this sentiment, the race director emphasized the holistic benefits of the event, stating, “Today was about more than just competition; it was about exercising both the body and the mind.” Thrilled with the overwhelming turnout and success, he promised an even more advanced and well-structured event next year, hinting at plans to expand the competition to include a longer distance, potentially a half marathon. The future of the Eastern Marathon looks brighter than ever.