Harrison Wanjiru of Kenya won the 21km race at the ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon, earning $10,000. Local athletes excelled in the 5km race, with prizes totaling $71,000 for participants. The marathon celebrated ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary, promoting regional talent and aspirations for World Athletics Gold Label status.
Kenyan athlete Harrison Wanjiru triumphed at the Third ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon, clinching victory in the 21km race. As a result of his remarkable performance, he was awarded a cash prize of $10,000. The marathon, held in Abuja on Saturday, drew elite long-distance runners from Africa and other regions, underscoring its growing significance in the athletic community.
In the accompanying 5km race, local talents excelled, with Sunday Dagyan and Vivian Obadiah from Plateau State winning the male and female categories, respectively. Both athletes received a cash prize of $1,000 in recognition of their outstanding performances. This year’s marathon saw a participation of 5,000 runners competing for a total prize pool valued at $71,000.
Competitors in the half-marathon and fun run events were rewarded with significant cash prizes of $10,000 each, while those finishing in second to fifth places received awards of $500, $400, $250, and $200, respectively. Additional prize money was allocated for those who finished between fourth and tenth place, further encouraging competitive spirit.
Every participant was presented with a certificate of participation endorsed by the ECOWAS Commission President, and the first 200 finishers were honored with bronze medals. Race Director Gabriel Okon confirmed that the defending champion, Gabriel Sellasie of Ethiopia, would return to compete this year, reflecting the event’s intense competition and diversity.
Ambassador Francis Njoaguani, the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee and the ECOWAS Director of Youth and Sports, noted that the marathon marks the 50th anniversary celebration of ECOWAS. He highlighted the event’s importance in enhancing regional involvement and fostering local talent, articulating ambitions for the marathon to achieve World Athletics Gold Label status within four years.
The 21km marathon commenced and concluded at the ECOWAS Commission headquarters, while the 5km race started at Independence Drive and concluded at the same location, showcasing the scenic route of Abuja and enhancing the overall experience for participants.
The ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon showcased exceptional athletic talent, with Kenyan runner Harrison Wanjiru taking first place in the 21km event. Local athletes also shone in the 5km race, demonstrating the prowess of the region. This significant event not only celebrates the rich athletic abilities of diverse competitors but also marks a milestone in the ECOWAS history, aiming for increased recognition on a global scale.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
