First National Bank Accra Marathon to become national event – Sports Minister

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Yusif has hinted of plans to make the First National Bank-sponsored Accra Marathon a national event.

He said the marathon was a testament to the spirit of endurance and unity in our communities hence making it a nationwide event would help to unearth more talents as well as grow the sport.

Mr Mustapha, who is also a Member of Parliament for Yagaba Kubore Constituency, was speaking at the closing ceremony of the marathon which started today, November 11, 2023, from the Regional Maritime University in Nungua and ended at the Dansoman Keep Fit Club.

“This event is about enthusiasm and discipline. Your determination shows the power of sports to bring our people together.

“The Ministry will collaborate with the Dansoman Keep Fit Club to make this event a national event,” he said.

He commended the leadership of the Dansoman Keep Fit Club and the First National Bank as well as other sponsored for their diverse contributions to revive the completion which had been in hiatus for more than six years.

About 1,000 runners from across the country participated in the 42.2 kilometres race for professional athletes as well as 10 kilometres for school children.

At the end of the over five-hour race, 24-year-old Koogo Atia from Sagadugu in the North East Region won the men category of the 42.2 kilimotres race while Potia Anaba, a Form Two student of the T I Ahmadiyya SHS in Kumasi, won the women’s event.

For their rewards, they each took home GH₵20,000 as cash prize, laptops and souvenirs from sponsors.

Mr Mustapha Yusif presenting the award to Koogo Atia, winner of the 42.2 km race