By Grace Q. Bryant
The Liberia Marathon is set to take place on Sunday, November 24, featuring a diverse lineup of races aimed at promoting health, fitness, and international collaboration.
Course Coordinator Daniel Dean made the announcement on November 21 during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information, expressing his excitement for what is poised to be the largest and most inclusive marathon in Liberia’s history.
Dean urged the public to either participate in or attend the event, which is expected to draw thousands of athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and spectators from within Liberia and abroad. “This is a race for everyone. We have a great race to attend, and we’re ready for an exciting event this Sunday,” he said.
The marathon will kick off promptly at 7:00 AM with the half marathon, spanning 13.1 miles from Freeport to the Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex (SKD). Following the half marathon, the VIP race will start at 7:45 AM, with the wheelchair race beginning at 7:50 AM. A crutches race, designed to encourage inclusivity, will follow, and the regular race will take place shortly thereafter.
In total, nearly 2,000 participants have already registered, including athletes from across Liberia’s counties.
Dean emphasized that one of the key goals of the event is to showcase Liberia’s stunning landscapes to international runners and partners, fostering future investment and business opportunities in the country.
“We have the 10-kilometer race, which runs from JFK to SKD, and about 140 participants have signed up for the half marathon. This race is not just about running; it’s also about encouraging foreign partners to experience Liberia and see the potential this country has to offer,” he said.
Dean also highlighted the race’s inclusivity, noting that runners with visual and hearing impairments would participate in the event.
The marathon is being held in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and several other key partners, including APM Terminals, the Liberia National Police, and the Monrovia and Paynesville city corporations. “The race is designed to bring people together, whether you’re an athlete, a spectator, or a volunteer,” Dean added.
He also noted the crucial role of the Armed Forces of Liberia during the event, particularly in helping to distribute water and support the runners. “When the Armed Forces hand out water along the course, it fosters a sense of unity between the military and civilians. It’s a beautiful sight, especially when our disabled athletes are running alongside military personnel,” Dean said.
As with any large-scale event, traffic restrictions will be in place along the race route. The Liberia National Police will manage these measures to ensure the safety of the runners while allowing for the movement of vehicles. “The public should be aware of these changes, but we are committed to ensuring that the race goes smoothly and safely,” Dean reassured.
In terms of medical support, Dean reassured the public that the event organizers are well-prepared for any health concerns. “There will be medical tents and first-aid stations along the route. Our priority is to ensure that every runner is safe, and we are taking all necessary precautions to anticipate and address any emergencies.”
The Liberia Marathon is not only a major sporting event but also a significant occasion for fostering national pride and community involvement. Dean closed by expressing his hope that the event would inspire more Liberians to embrace fitness and well-being. “We are looking forward to seeing you all on Sunday morning. This is going to be a great day for Liberia, and we’re ready to make it a safe and enjoyable event for everyone.”
