Kenya’s Harrison Wanjiru Triumphs at ECOWAS-Abuja Marathon

The Third ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon saw Kenyan Harrison Wanjiru win the 21km race, earning $10,000. Local athletes excelled in the 5km race, and a total prize pool of $71,000 was distributed among participants. The event celebrated ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary and aimed for future recognition as a prestigious international marathon.

Kenyan athlete Harrison Wanjiru emerged victorious in the Third ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon, winning the 21km race and earning a cash prize of $10,000. The event, which took place on Saturday morning in Abuja, showcased elite long-distance runners from Africa and beyond, highlighting the competition’s significance on the international stage.

Local athletes also shined in the accompanying 5km race, with Sunday Dagyan and Vivian Obadiah from Plateau State clinching first place in their respective categories. Each received $1,000 in recognition of their exceptional performances, demonstrating the depth of talent present at the marathon.

With a participation of 5,000 runners, the 2025 ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon offered a substantial total prize pool of $71,000. Top finishers in both the half-marathon and fun run events were rewarded with $10,000 each, while subsequent places earned varying cash prizes, further incentivizing high-level competition throughout the event.

All participants were granted certificates of participation signed by the President of the ECOWAS Commission, with the first 200 finishers receiving bronze medals. Race Director Gabriel Okon confirmed that defending champion Gabriel Sellasie from Ethiopia would return to compete again, underscoring the event’s competitive nature.

The Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Ambassador Francis Njoaguani, noted that the marathon was integral to celebrating ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary. He emphasized the event’s commitment to stimulating regional participation and nurturing local talent, envisioning the marathon achieving World Athletics Gold Label status within four years.

The race commenced and concluded at the ECOWAS Commission headquarters, with the 5km race starting at Independence Drive near Sahad Stores and CDB. This strategically planned route not only showcased the local environment but also encouraged community engagement in a prestigious athletic event.

In conclusion, the Third ECOWAS-Abuja International Marathon successfully showcased exceptional talent, with Kenyan athlete Harrison Wanjiru taking home the top prize in the 21km race. The event celebrated local and international participation and aimed to foster athletic development within the region. The commitment to elevating the marathon to World Athletics Gold Label status reflects its growing significance in the global athletics calendar.

Original Source: newscentral.africa