Eastern Walk Thrills at Aburi Gardens as Eastern Marathon Inaugural Held
The Aburi Botanical Gardens was thrown into a state of excitement and celebration on Saturday, 30 August, 2025, as hundreds of sports enthusiasts, fitness lovers, and community members gathered for the third edition of the Eastern Walk, organized by Lyf Arena.
This year’s event carried even greater significance as it also witnessed the official launch of the Eastern Marathon, an initiative expected to discover and nurture budding long-distance running talents within the Eastern Region and beyond.
Both the 5km and 10km run/walk events started at Ayi Mensah, with the 5km race concluding at Ankanyma and the more challenging 10km event finishing at the scenic Aburi Botanical Gardens in the Akuapem South District. The breathtaking climb up the Aburi Mountains tested endurance, determination, and mental strength of every participant. Spectators and cheerleaders lined the roadsides, motivating the athletes with songs, claps, and cheers as they pushed through the challenging course.
Dignitaries who graced the occasion included 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. Impressively, they all took part in the walk from start to finish, a gesture that highlighted the importance of exercise and community participation.
As the races concluded, top performers were celebrated and rewarded with souvenirs from sponsors.
🔹 5km Female Results
🥇 Tuolong Reina – 21:23s (High Morale Athletics Academy)
🥈 Alice Saayirtuo – 25:30s (High Morale Athletics Academy)
🥉 Candis Cornan – 50:12s (Legon)
🔹 5km Male Results
🥇 Ziem Festus – 20:53s (High Morale Athletics Academy)
🥈 Philip Quaicoo – 21:43s (Legon)
🥉 Henry Nartey – 22:07s (Akosombo)
🔹 10km Female Results
🥇 Ekuwin Kumah – 46:25s (High Morale Athletics Academy)
🥈 Banganwor Hannah – 48:38s (High Morale Athletics Academy)
🥉 Aminu Nasibu – 50:31s
🔹 10km Male Results
🥇 David Nakousi – 36:55s
🥈 Abudu Sulemana – 39:07s
🥉 Koba Sixtus – 41:25s
Speaking after the event, the Director General of the National Sports Authority, Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, praised Lyf Arena for the successful organization, pledging the Authority’s continued support for sporting initiatives that focus on talent development and healthy living.
The Race Director also expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the enthusiasm of participants. He emphasized the need for both physical and mental exercise in daily life, while assuring participants and stakeholders that next year’s edition will be even bigger and better, with plans already in place to extend the distance to a half marathon.
With the lush greenery of the Aburi Botanical Gardens as the backdrop, the Eastern Marathon and Walk 2025 was not just a test of stamina but a true celebration of sports, culture, and community spirit.