After a six-year hiatus, the Accra Marathon, affectionately known as the Accra Milo Marathon, is poised to make a triumphant return this year, with First National Bank (FNB) taking centre stage as the headline sponsor.
The race follows the announcement of a five-year partnership between the Dansoman Keep Fit Club, the event's organizers, and First National Bank.
The 42.2-kilometer flagship race is scheduled to take place on Saturday, November 11, 2023, and is expected to draw a multitude of professional athletes from across the nation.
Additionally, Junior High School students and corporate entities will participate in the 5km and 10 km categories, respectively.
At a brief ceremony held at the FNB Head Office in Accra, Mr. Benjamin Ahulu, Chairman of the Dansoman Keep Fit Club, expressed gratitude for FNB's sponsorship.
He stated, “We are thrilled to have FNB come on board as the headline sponsor of the Accra Marathon. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to promote community well-being and underscores our commitment to fostering a healthier and more active lifestyle for everyone. We look forward to an incredible marathon event and the positive impact it will have on our city.”
Mr. Ahulu further revealed that with FNB as the title sponsor, the marathon would now be known as the First National Bank Accra Marathon.
Mr. Warren Adams, the Chief Executive Officer of FNB, emphasized that the partnership signifies FNB's unwavering commitment to Ghana and its dedication to promoting sports, fitness, and a sense of community.
He remarked, “This partnership for us is much more than our name being prominently displayed as the headline sponsor. It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to offer real help to individuals and help develop our communities.”
The Accra Marathon was initially introduced by the Dansoman Keepfit Club with the aim of instilling a culture of long-distance running in society, particularly among the youth, to promote a healthier lifestyle.
The inaugural Accra Marathon took place in 1987, sponsored by the State Insurance Corporation and the Internal Revenue Service, under the leadership of the late Professor John Evans Atta Mills.
The race witnessed 107 athletes, with Police Sergeant Alfred Amagatse emerging as the winner. Notably, ten-year-old Maureen Adjn Tettey was among the participants, crossing the finish line in a historic moment for the event.