The 9th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, set to commence on Saturday, February 20, will witness the participation of at least 81 world-class elite runners, all of whom hold Gold Label status in the athletics world.
Yusuf Ali, the General Manager of the Lagos City Marathon, confirmed the involvement of these elite athletes, highlighting the presence of 15 refugee runners among them. This diverse field promises an exciting and competitive race, with the potential for new course records to be set.
Of the 81 elite runners, 29 are women with Gold Label status, ensuring a highly competitive and globally recognized lineup. Chief Bukola Olopade, CEO of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, the organizers of the Lagos City Marathon, also confirmed the participation of the refugee runners, underscoring the event’s inclusivity and diversity.
Ali emphasized the significance of having over 81 Gold Label runners, expressing optimism about the marathon’s future. He outlined aspirations to elevate the race to Platinum Label status, aiming for this milestone by attracting top-tier athletes and achieving exceptional race times.
With renowned athletes such as Denis Kipmeto, Kelkile Gezahegan, Kiptoo Edwin, and Valary Jemeli among the participants, there is a strong possibility of elevating the status of the Lagos City Marathon. Ali highlighted the potential impact of achieving this feat, stressing the race’s importance as a platform for Olympic Games qualifiers, particularly for Paris 2024.
Moreover, Ali emphasized the meticulous planning and adherence to global standards, including air quality control, ensuring that the 9th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon will stand out as a premier event in 2024, comparable to top marathons worldwide.