By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-02-10 10:37:47
Kenya’s Bernard Sang emerged as the victor of the 2024 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, finishing with an impressive time of 2:16:49. The Kenyan dominance was further demonstrated as Silas Cheprot secured second place with a time of 2:16:54, and Godffrey Birger followed closely in third place with a time of 2:17:43. The men’s category of the race was entirely dominated by Kenyan runners, showcasing their exceptional talent and determination.
In the women’s category, Chala Kebene from Ethiopia seized the first position with a remarkable time of 2:41:01. Kenya’s Ruth Aga secured second place with a time of 2:41:41, while Sharon Cherop from Ethiopia clinched third place with a time of 2:42:00.
Bernard Sang’s victory in the 2024 marathon was a marked improvement from his performance in the 2023 Lagos City Marathon, where he secured third place. Sang emphasized the rigorous training and preparation he underwent over a six-month period to achieve this victory. Despite the challenging conditions in Lagos, Sang’s determination and hard work paid off, earning him the prestigious title.
Notably, Bernard Sang had previously emerged victorious in the 42nd Istanbul Marathon, completing the race in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 49 seconds. This remarkable achievement further solidified his status as a formidable long-distance runner. Sang expressed his ambition to compete in the Paris 2024 Olympics, showcasing his aspirations to continue making an impact on the global stage.
The top finishers in the men’s category were generously rewarded, with the first-place winner receiving a grand prize of 50,000 dollars, while the second and third-place winners were awarded 40,000 dollars and 30,000 dollars respectively. This substantial prize money serves as recognition of their exceptional athletic abilities and dedication.
The marathon, which commenced at the National Stadium in Surulere at 6:00 a.m., concluded at the Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island. As a Gold Label marathon, the event has recently been upgraded by World Athletics and aspires to achieve Platinum label status by its 10th anniversary. The organizers’ commitment to excellence and the pursuit of improvement demonstrates the marathon’s ambition to become the premier marathon in Africa.
The 2024 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon not only showcased the outstanding athleticism of the participating runners but also highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and the unifying power of athletic competition. The event serves as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of runners from around the world, and it continues to inspire and motivate both participants and spectators alike.
