#RunLagos: Kenya Kiptum retains Access Bank Lagos City Marathon

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8 years ago

Abraham Kiptum from Kenya on Saturday won the second edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon held at the Eko Atlantic Ocean, Lagos State.

Kiptum retained the titled he won last year in a time of two hours, 15 minutes and 23 seconds to clinch the star prize of N1million while his fellow from Kenya also claimed the second position with the time of two hours, 15 minutes and 25 seconds.

Kiprotich Kiroi, also from Kenya, finished third in two hours, 15 minutes and 30 seconds.

Speaking with Tribunesport, the winner said he was glad to have won the competition back-to-back having prepared so much for it.

In the female category, Tanui Rodah from Kenya claimed the first prize with the sum N1million, while Fridah Lodepa and Alice Timbilli both also from Kenya, won the second and third position with the time of two hours, 38 minutes and 21 seconds respectively.

The only Nigerian that won was Sharubutu Philibus, who finished in a time of two hours, 31 minutes and 17 seconds.

Meanwhile, an athlete from Oyo State, Sefiu Ojeleye, won the wheelchair race just as he said he was very excited claiming the gold in the wheelchair category.

“I made my debut in this marathon last year and I thank God that I have won it back-to- back. I would not have been able to achieve this if not for my coach’s intruction with hard training and I know this will boost my chances in the forthcoming event in Kenya.

“This is a good beginning for me as I am making progress in my athletics career and I would like to dedicate the award to my crew and my family for their support.

“The money won here today will be used for the underprivileged because I believe in humanitarian service.

In his welcome address, Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Dr Herbert Wigwe, said they were proud to hold the second edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, adding that the turn out was very impressive.

He said: “Access Bank is proud to return as the title sponsor of the 2017 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon for the second consecutive year. Following the success of last year’s internationally acclaimed event, which was the first marathon in Lagos State in 30 years. In line with the sustainable development goals, Access Bank readily assumed the responsiblity of encouraging and supporting the general public in the adoption of a lifestyle that will promote good health and wellbeing,” he said.

Wigwe lauded the Lagos State governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, for his partnership alongside the citizens of the state for their continuous support and corporation.

The race which saw Governor Ambode, President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF),

Amaju Pinnick among thousands, that participate in the event.