Monrovia, Liberia – Sponsors and race participants alike have praised and complimented the Liberia Marathon organizers. The event, which had as the theme “Healthy Cities, Healthy Lives,” celebrated strength, perseverance, and national solidarity while highlighting the link between fitness, public health, and community well-being. There were 863 female participants and 1768 male participants out of a total of 2631. There were 30 participants in the main marathon: 4 women and 26 men. A total of 100 participants in the half marathon: 85 men and 15 women.
32 individuals represented the VIP Footrace, 20 men and 12 women. 5 persons participated in the 10k Wheelchair marathon, 3 men and 2 women. In the 10k Crutches marathon, the female domated with 4 representatives and 2 males. The largest group participants was the 10k Run which recorded the total number of 2458 people, 1768 men and 863 women.
The platinum sponsor, ArcelorMittal Liberia, one of the top corporate backers of sports development in the nation, also gave this year’s event high marks.
The Liberia Marathon Trust, the marathon’s organizers, were commended by the company, through its CEO Michiel Van Der Merwe, for their professionalism, dedication to empowering young people through sports, and involvement in the community.
“For yet another fantastic competition, ArcelorMittal would like to congratulate all of the runners. We are thankful to the organizers for this. Again, congratulations to all. Being a prime sponsor is an honor,” he remarked.
AML reiterated its dedication to funding programs that use sports to grow community well-being, youth development, and national unity.
“The race was one of the most positive events that took place in Monrovia,” said Ambassador Nona Deprez, head of the European Union’s delegation to Liberia.
“The EU is proud to support the Liberia Marathon and loves it. Through health, hope, and a common goal, this event unites individuals.”
According to Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu, Liberia’s Youth and Sports Minister, the recently ended competition is an additional testament to the nation’s preparedness and dedication to athletics. Athletes from Liberia competed in the Olympics in Japan this year. This shows that both Liberians and Liberia are improving. Therefore, we want to express our gratitude to all of the sponsors for their support, he said.
Amadu Sajor Samura of Sierra Leone stole the show when he won the men’s full marathon, drawing applause from thousands of participants for his incredible effort. It was an all Sierra Leone victory with countrymen Kalie Sesay and Abubakar Contec, who completed a Sierra Leonean sweep of the top three spots.
Suech S. Makko of Liberia won the 10K race, and Tomas Mulbach and Moses Sacror Lok won the wheelchair division. For his bravery and perseverance, Emmanuel Ngume, the winner of the crutches category, was given a standing ovation, garnering praise as a representation of strength and potential.
Magdalene Saah, the media organizer, thanked ArcelorMittal and all of the international partners for their contributions to the success of the event. According to her, every runner who starts and completes is a champion. Crossing the finish line is only one aspect of the Liberia Marathon; other aspects include bravery, camaraderie, and connection.
Liberian musicians performed at the marathon to amuse spectators and runners after the main event. Among others, government representatives, businesses, civil society organizations, youth groups, Armed Forces of Liberia, diplomats and others participated in this year’s marathon.
