For the upteenth time since inception of the prestigious Lagos International Marathon, the East Africans took no prisoners and left nothing other than the crumbs for the rest on the table.
In the men’s race Kenya’s Ezra Kipchumba Kering delivered a Valentine’s Day masterclass, storming to victory at the 11th edition of the Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, February 14.
Kipchumba crossed the finish line at Eko Atlantic City in an impressive time of 2:11:55, clinching the $50,000 top prize in one of Africa’s most prestigious road races.
Uganda dominated the other podium spots, with Lomoi Samuel finishing a close second in 2:11:59, while Namutala Kephar Lumbasi secured third place in 2:12:25, capping off a fiercely competitive men’s race.
In the women’s field, Ethiopia’s Dinke Meseret Meleka claimed top honours, crossing the line in 2:37:36. Kenya’s Daniel Flomena Cheyech followed closely in 2:37:43, while Ethiopia’s Getaw Wgagen Zewdalem finished third in 2:38:59.
No Nigerian made it to the podium in both the men’s and women’s categories.
However another chapter was written in the history of the Lagos City Marathon following the use of the magnificent Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway which Works Minister, David Umahi represented by Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Olufemi Dare said is a prove of resolve to deliver high-quality job.
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“The successful completion of this international sporting event on this equally world class road infrastructure is testimony to the the huge benefits the country would derive when the full stretch of over 750 kilometres is completed.
Dare who said his principal, the Works Minister was happy that the road has served the purpose of the marathon disclosed that they would continue to put in their best to ensure the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project does not fall short in any aspect.
In the same vein, Lagos Governor, Babajide Sanwoolu represented by his deputy, Olufemi Hamzat said the use of the coastal road is a confirmation of the resolve of President Bola Tinubu to give the country the best under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Deputy Governor however raised concern over the lack of quality runners in Nigeria to challenge the East Africans . “I agree with those who think our country can do better in the area of grooming athletes to compete.
“We have areas in some parts of the country with requisite weather conditions favourable for the grooming of athletes who can do well in Marathons of this nature.
“It is something that can be done so that we can have Nigerians finishing third, if not first and second” he said.
The Gold Label marathon, is rated by athletics enthusiasts in Africa and beyond as one that continues to raise the bar for long-distance running on the African continent.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
