By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-02-09 03:37:15
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is set to hold its ninth edition, and organisers have announced that 81 elite runners from around the world will be participating in the event. The race will kick off tomorrow at the National Stadium in Surulere, and is expected to feature a strong field of world-class runners, with the potential to set new records.
Yusuf Alli, the General Manager of the race, expressed excitement about the participation of 29 gold-label women stars, highlighting the rich and competitive nature of the running field. Alli, a former African men’s long jump record holder, emphasized the positive impact of having such a strong group of elite runners on the race. He also revealed that preparations for the 10th edition of the marathon are underway, with hopes of elevating its status from a gold label to a platinum label.
Alli shared the ambitious goal of achieving platinum status for the Lagos City Marathon, stating that if five elite runners can finish the race in under two hours and eight minutes, the race would be eligible for platinum status. He also mentioned several top runners who will be participating, including former world record holder Demis Kipmeto, Kelkile Gezahegan, Kiptoo Edwin, and Valary Jemeli, among others. Alli expressed confidence that the quality of the runners in this edition of the marathon could lead to a change in its status.
In addition to showcasing elite talent, the ninth Lagos City Marathon will also serve as a qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Alli emphasized that the race will meet international standards for air quality control and other requirements set by World Athletics. This commitment to excellence will further establish the Lagos City Marathon as a world-class event.
Bukola Olopade, the Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, the owners of the Lagos City Marathon, provided further details about the composition of the runners. Olopade revealed that the United Nations has confirmed the participation of 15 refugee runners in the marathon, adding a unique and inclusive element to the event.
The confirmation of such a strong field of elite runners, coupled with the potential for the race to ascend to platinum label status, has generated significant anticipation for the ninth edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. With its global participation, competitive field, and commitment to achieving international standards, the marathon is poised to further solidify its reputation as a premier sporting event. As the race prepares to unfold, excitement is building among athletes, organizers, and fans, as they eagerly await the start of what promises to be an unforgettable event.
