Africa-Press – Ghana. David Nakousi of the University of Ghana defended his title in the elite men’s category of the First National Bank (FNB) Accra Marathon on Saturday, finishing the 21.1km race in 1:09:01s.
The 23-year-old athlete pocketed a GH¢10,000 cash prize after edging out Ismael Arthur who placed second (1.09:02s), while Kenya’s Kevin Ragui came third in 1:12:33s.
Kenya’s Florence Watetu Wachira claimed the women’s crown in 1:21:60, ahead of last year’s winner Joyce Ayaba and Mariam Adu.
The annual event, which began at Accra Sports Stadium and ended at Dansoman Keep Fit Club grounds, drew thousands of runners across categories, including juniors, in a carnival-like atmosphere.
Mr Benjamin Ahulu, the Dansoman Keep Fit Club Chairman , said the marathon was growing stronger each year. “The FNB Accra Marathon has become a national fitness tradition. Next year will be even bigger,” he told reporters.
Madam Sylvia Inkoom, Executive Director at First National Bank, expressed her delight at the impressive turnout for this year’s marathon, noting the strong participation from athletes, corporate organizations, and running clubs.
“The turnout was truly remarkable and underscores the significance of this event in our sporting calendar. At First National Bank, we are proud to be associated with such an impactful initiative,” she said.
Mr Magnus Dey, Head of Marketing, BlowGroup Industries Limited expressed his delight in associating with the Accra Marathon for the third year running.
He stated that Bel Beverages is always happy to associate their brands with sports, where athletes are hydrated and need water to perform at their best.
Mr Dey pledged the company’s continuous support for the event, reinforcing their commitment to promoting health and wellness through sports.
Other sponsors of the event include Hollard Insurance, official insurers of the all the athletes and volunteers, EV House, Edgewater Medical Center, Fresh Luk eye center, Nutfield Clinic, Indomie , Runners alliance with Graphic Sports, EIB, GTV Sports+, IMAX and Multi media as partners.
Some agencies including the National Sports Authority, Ghana Education Service, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Red Cross, Ghana Athletics and the Greater Accra Keep Fit Club contributed to the success of this year’s marathon.
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