Kenyan athlete Bernard Sang has emerged victorious in the highly anticipated 2024 Lagos City Marathon, triumphing over a field of elite competitors to claim the top spot in the 42-kilometer race. Sang’s impressive performance secured him the coveted grand prize of $50,000 in the ninth edition of the marathon held on Saturday morning.
Outpacing approximately 80 other elite marathoners, Sang crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 49 seconds, cementing his place at the forefront of the competition. His fellow Kenyan runners, Simon Cheprot and Edwin Kiptoo, clinched the second and third positions, respectively, earning cash prizes of $40,000 and $30,000.
Notably, Sang’s victory marks a significant improvement from his previous performance, having finished third in the 2023 edition of the marathon. His dedication and determination have propelled him to the pinnacle of success in this year’s race.
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Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s Kebene Chala emerged as the leading female runner, crossing the finish line as the first woman with an impressive time. Chala’s outstanding performance secured her the top prize of $50,000, highlighting the remarkable talent and competitiveness of female athletes in long-distance running.
In addition to the substantial cash prizes, the winners of both the men’s and women’s races have earned a coveted opportunity to represent their respective countries in the marathon event at the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris, further underscoring the significance of their achievements.
Among the local competitors, Shehu Muazu distinguished himself as the first Nigerian to complete the marathon, showcasing his prowess and determination on the challenging course. Muazu’s remarkable feat earned him a commendable cash prize of N1 million.
The 42-kilometer race, which commenced at the National Stadium in Surulere, saw participants navigate through the vibrant streets of Lagos before culminating at the scenic Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island. The marathon route provided both runners and spectators with a captivating showcase of the city’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness.
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