Accra prepares for Milo Marathon

Athletes in Ghana are gearing up for the 26th Accra Milo Marathon which takes place on 21 September, following the event's launch in Accra on 24 August by its principal sponsor Nestle Ghana.

The annual 42.2km race, which has as its theme "Champions run the city", will see the participation of 7,000 runners - an increase of 2,000 from last year. The route takes athletes from The Point in Nungua across the city to the finish line at Dansoman Keep Fit Club.

The first past the post will receive a cash prize of 10,000 cedis and a trophy, while the first and second runners-up will win 7,000 and 5,000 cedis respectively.

This year’s juvenile race has been reduced from 15km to 5km to ensure a maximum completion rate, with the winner receiving 1,200 cedis.

Organisers have set aside 14-20 September for medical screening for the prospective runners at locations around Accra.

The marathon has been a prominent feature on the Ghanaian sporting calendar since it was established in 1987.