The 7th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, held on Saturday, February 12, 2022, saw Ethiopia’s Ulfata Geleta claim victory in the men’s 42km race, solidifying his reputation as a formidable long-distance runner. The event, a highlight of Nigeria’s sporting calendar, drew hundreds of athletes and spectators to the streets of Lagos, showcasing athletic prowess and international competition.
A Stellar Performance by Ulfata Geleta
Ulfata Geleta crossed the finish line at Eko Atlantic City with an impressive time of 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 58 seconds, securing the top spot in the men’s category. His victory earned him the grand prize of $30,000, a testament to his endurance and skill in navigating the challenging 42km course. “This win is a proud moment, and I’m honored to compete in such a vibrant city,” Geleta reportedly shared, reflecting on his achievement.
The marathon, which began at 6:00 AM from the National Stadium in Surulere, tested the resilience of participants as they traversed key routes along Ahmadu Bello Way to the finish line. Geleta’s performance stood out, as he outpaced a competitive field of over 300 marathoners, demonstrating Ethiopia’s continued dominance in long-distance running.
Strong Competition in the Men’s Race
Following closely behind Geleta, Kenya’s David Barmasai secured second place with a time of 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 27 seconds, earning $20,000. His compatriot, Emmanuel Naibei, finished third in 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 42 seconds, taking home $15,000. Both runners, who previously won the 5th and 6th editions of the marathon, showcased Kenya’s strong presence in the race, though they couldn’t overtake Geleta’s commanding lead. “The competition was fierce, but it pushed us to give our all,” Barmasai noted, acknowledging the intensity of the event.
The men’s race highlighted the ongoing rivalry between Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes, with both nations fielding top-tier runners who captivated spectators with their speed and determination.
Ethiopian Dominance in the Women’s Category
In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Dagne Siranesh Yirga clinched first place with a time of 2 hours, 33 minutes, and 50 seconds, securing the $30,000 prize. Her compatriot, Alemeneshi Hereha Guta, took second place, while Kenya’s Naomi Maiyo rounded out the podium in third. The Ethiopian duo’s performance underscored their nation’s strength in distance running, continuing a tradition of excellence in the sport. “Running in Lagos was an incredible experience, and I’m thrilled to take this victory home,” Yirga said, celebrating her win.
The women’s race followed the same 42km route as the men’s, starting at the National Stadium and concluding at Eko Atlantic City, with runners braving early morning conditions to compete for the top honors.
A Vibrant Celebration of Sport
The 2022 Lagos City Marathon, proudly supported by Access Bank and refreshed by Aquafina, was more than just a race—it was a celebration of athleticism, community, and entertainment. The event attracted a diverse field of runners, including elite athletes and local participants, with a 10km race starting from Lekki Phase I for additional competitors. Post-race festivities featured performances by artists like Wande Coal, Teni, and Zlatan, adding to the festive atmosphere at Eko Atlantic City.
The marathon’s route, which wound through iconic Lagos landmarks, highlighted the city’s vibrancy and its growing status as a hub for international sporting events. The participation of high-profile figures, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who joined the symbolic flag-off, further elevated the event’s significance.
Looking Ahead for Lagos
The success of the 7th edition of the Lagos City Marathon reinforces its position as a premier event in Nigeria’s sports calendar. With strong performances from international athletes like Geleta and Yirga, the marathon continues to draw global attention, fostering unity and showcasing Lagos as a dynamic host city. As the event concluded, organizers and participants expressed optimism for future editions, aiming to build on this year’s achievements.
The 2022 marathon not only celebrated athletic excellence but also highlighted the spirit of perseverance and community, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated and watched.
