Accra, Ghana – July 27th, 2024: The vibrant capital city of Accra is set to host the inaugural Black Star Marathon, a prestigious international running event that celebrates the spirit of unity and excellence inspired by Pan-Africanist Marcus Mosiah Garvey. Organized by the Runathon Ghana Foundation, the Black Star Marathon aims to bring together professional athletes and recreational runners from around the world for a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Replacing the initial Accra City Marathon, the Black Star Marathon symbolizes Garvey’s vision of African greatness and solidarity. The event is expected to attract over 10,000 runners, promising a festival of running that showcases Accra’s dynamic spirit and fosters the development of healthy, active lifestyles among participants and spectators.
The Black Star Marathon features a range of long-distance running events, including the standard 42.2 km marathon for men and women aged 18 and above, a 42.2 km wheelchair marathon, and a 10 km mass run/walk/jog open to all. These diverse events provide opportunities for runners of all backgrounds to test their limits, improve their performance, and compete alongside international athletes.
Dr. Eric Kwame Adae, former elite Ghanaian long-distance runner and Founder of Runathon Ghana, expressed the importance of international competition in fostering sportsmanship and excellence. He emphasized that participating in the Black Star Marathon not only challenges athletes physically and mentally but also offers global recognition and the chance to make a lasting impact on the world stage.
Through the Black Star Marathon, the Runathon Foundation is committed to providing resources and support for athletes, including coaching, mentoring, nutrition, equipment, and facilities. Moreover, the event aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, allowing runners to raise awareness and funds for charitable causes that address critical issues such as education, health, environment, and human rights.
Dr. Adae extended an invitation to corporations and organizations to support the event through sponsorship, emphasizing the collective effort needed to promote health, fitness, and social causes within the community.
Runners interested in participating can register via the official Black Star Marathon website at https://www.blackstarmarathon.com/. The Black Star Marathon promises to be a celebration of athleticism, unity, and African excellence, marking a significant milestone in the global running calendar.
