SPORTS: EDWIN KIBET KOECH AND GUTA MESERET HIRPA TRIUMPH AT 2025 ACCESS BANK LAGOS CITY MARATHON

The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon ended in thrilling fashion as Kenyan long-distance runner Edwin Kibet Koech emerged victorious in the men’s category, finishing the 42km race in 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 6 seconds. The atmosphere at Eko Atlantic City, the race’s finishing point, was electric as Koech crossed the line, arms raised in triumph.

The Kenyan athlete, who previously won the 2023 edition, demonstrated remarkable endurance and strategic pacing to outlast a highly competitive field. His performance reaffirmed Kenya’s dominance in the marathon scene, a tradition that has seen East African runners claim multiple victories since the race's inception in 2016.

In the women’s category, Ethiopia’s Guta Meseret Hirpa claimed the top prize, continuing the strong rivalry between Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes. Hirpa's victory was met with loud cheers from the crowd, as she celebrated her win with a beaming smile.

A MARATHON OF GLOBAL STANDARDS

The 2025 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, which marked its 10th anniversary, attracted an estimated 37,000 runners from across the world. The race began at the National Stadium in Surulere at sunrise, with elite athletes, amateurs, and fun runners hitting the streets of Lagos.

The 42km route took participants through key landmarks, including Ikorodu Road, Third Mainland Bridge, and Victoria Island, before culminating at Eko Atlantic City. Thousands of spectators lined the streets, cheering on runners and waving flags in support.

Speaking after his win, Koech expressed his excitement about reclaiming the title:

"Lagos is always an amazing place to run. The weather was tough, but I kept my focus. Winning this race again is a special moment for me."

A RACE GROWING IN PRESTIGE

The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, recognized as a World Athletics Gold Label event, continues to grow in stature. Organizers have expressed their ambition to attain Platinum Label status, which would make it the first marathon in Africa to achieve this distinction.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was present at the finish line, congratulated the winners and emphasized the state’s commitment to making the event one of the biggest in the world.

With elite athletes, corporate sponsors, and thousands of passionate runners making the 2025 edition a grand success, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon continues to cement its place as one of Africa’s premier road races.

Written By Adeola Shittu