The Millennium Half Marathon in Accra is set to return this Saturday, with its biggest prize pool to date, offering GH¢75,000 to both male and female winners in the 10th edition of the race.
Registration for the event will close on Monday as organizers are anticipating a high turnout of both local and international athletes.
The World Athletics certified race will kick off at the Accra Sports Stadium Shell Filling Station and conclude at Black Star Square, guiding participants through the vibrant streets of central Accra. The route, based in Osu, has become synonymous with the marathon over its ten-year history.
Cathy Morton, the Race Director, emphasized the event’s dual mission of promoting fitness and supporting charitable causes. She encouraged young people to participate, highlighting that proceeds from the marathon go towards community development projects across Ghana.
The substantial prize money marks a significant increase from previous years, positioning the Millennium Marathon as one of West Africa’s most lucrative running events. This financial incentive is expected to attract elite athletes from the region and beyond.
Key sponsors for this year’s race include KGL Foundation, Twellium Ghana Limited, and Fidelity Bank, with additional support from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation. The National Sports Authority has also provided logistical support for the event.
Corporate partners such as Qualiplast, Interplast, Garmin, Star Oil, and DNL have pledged resources to ensure the smooth operation of the race. The diverse range of sponsors reflects the growing commercial interest in Ghana’s athletics industry.
Since its inception, the marathon has evolved significantly, earning World Athletics certification and establishing itself as a premier sporting event in West Africa. The race seamlessly combines competitive athletics with the celebration of Ghanaian culture and hospitality.
Participants can still register for the marathon until Monday by using the mobile code 80017#. Organizers anticipate a high demand for slots due to the enhanced prize structure. The simplified registration process aims to encourage participation across all age groups.
The marathon’s date on September 6 strategically positions it within Ghana’s sports calendar, avoiding conflicts with major international competitions and taking advantage of favorable weather conditions. The morning temperatures during this period typically provide ideal running conditions.
Over the years, international participation in the marathon has steadily increased, with runners from across West Africa and beyond drawn to the competitive nature of the event and the cultural experience it offers. The race not only showcases the vibrancy of Accra but also promotes Ghana as a top sporting destination.
Local athletics officials see the marathon’s success as a reflection of the growing interest in distance running in Ghana. The event has inspired numerous smaller races throughout the country and has contributed to raising the standards of road running.
The finish line at Black Star Square serves as a symbolic end to the race, with the national monument providing a backdrop for the celebrations. This location solidifies the marathon’s status as the premier half marathon in Ghana.
