Lagos is set to become the center of international athletics as the first wave of athletes arrives for the 10th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on February 13.
This year’s marathon, celebrated under the theme “Love in the Air,” coincides with Valentine’s Day festivities and promises to be a remarkable event, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the city.
Organizers anticipate around 4,000 international runners, including 100 elite athletes from countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Morocco, Eritrea, France, Uganda, Italy, and Ghana.
Mrs. Yetunde Olopade, CEO of Nilayo Sports Management, expressed excitement about the athletes’ arrival, emphasizing the extensive planning that has gone into making this decade’s milestone memorable. “Lagos will be buzzing with energy, unity, and the spirit of competition on race day,” she stated.
She paid tribute to the former CEO of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, who lost his life alongside his wife, Chizoba and son, Chizyi in a helicopter crash in California, United States, last year, describing him as a motivator, excellent manager and pillar of road racing in Nigeria.
She said Wigwe played a key role by buying into the concept of the marathon 10 years ago.
“We will forever remain grateful to Wigwe for the legacy role he played in the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. I won’t forget his moral support and motivation for the athletes and all those involved in the organisation of the marathon. Without the excellent role Wigwe played in the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, I doubt if I will be where I am today. We give God the glory that Wigwe left behind an amassing daughter, who is carrying on from where her father stopped,” the former CEO of Nilayo Sports and now director-general of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, said.
As anticipation builds, the marathon expo has kicked off at Teslim Balogun Stadium, setting the stage for a week of pre-race activities. The marathon not only highlights Lagos as a premier destination for sporting events but also showcases its warm hospitality, especially during a month when many regions around the world are grappling with winter.
Reflecting on the previous year, Kenyan runner Bernard Sang claimed victory in the 2024 edition, completing the marathon in an impressive 02:16:49, while Ethiopian athlete Kebene Chala topped the women’s category. The event continues to draw in top talent, with Kenyan athletes having a strong history of success in the marathon.
As the city prepares to welcome thousands of participants and spectators, the 10th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is set to be an unforgettable celebration of sport, culture, and community. All eyes will be on Lagos as it hosts some of the world’s finest long-distance runners, solidifying its reputation as a global sporting hub.
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