Kenya’s Harrison Wanjiru won the 21km ECOWAS-Abuja Marathon, earning $10,000. Local runners excelled in the 5km race, with $1,000 prizes for winners. The event attracted 5,000 participants and a prize pool of $71,000. Ambitious plans aim to achieve World Athletics Gold Label status within four years.
Kenyan runner Harrison Wanjiru triumphed in the Third ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon, winning the 21km race and a $10,000 cash prize. The event took place in Abuja on Saturday and featured elite long-distance athletes from Africa and beyond.
Local athletes excelled in the accompanying 5km race, with Sunday Dagyan and Vivian Obadiah of Plateau State clinching the male and female titles, respectively, each receiving $1,000 for their achievements.
The marathon attracted 5,000 competitors and boasted a total prize pool of $71,000, with top finishers in the half-marathon and fun run each awarded $10,000. Other prize amounts ranged from $500 to $200 for second to fifth place, while participants ranked fourth to tenth also earned monetary rewards.
Participants received a certificate signed by the ECOWAS Commission President, and the first 200 finishers were awarded bronze medals. Race Director Gabriel Okon announced that last year’s champion, Gabriel Sellasie from Ethiopia, will return to defend his title.
Nigerian runners comprised 60% of the total participants, with competitors also hailing from countries like the USA, Japan, and China. Ambassador Francis Njoaguani, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, highlighted that the marathon commemorates ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary and fosters regional participation and talent development.
Njoaguani expressed aspirations for the marathon to achieve World Athletics Gold Label status within four years, elevating it to a prominent position among global road races. The 21km race commenced and concluded at the ECOWAS Commission headquarters, while the 5km route started at Independence Drive and ended at the same location.
The ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon not only showcased exceptional athletic talent but also celebrated regional unity and development. With significant participation and prize distribution, the event marks an important milestone in promoting long-distance running in West Africa. The aspirations for elevated status highlight the event’s potential growth in international recognition.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
