The Millennium Half Marathon returns to Accra this Saturday with its largest prize pool yet, offering GH¢75,000 to both male and female winners of the 10th edition race.
Registration closes Monday as organizers expect strong participation from local and international athletes.
The World Athletics certified event will start at the Accra Sports Stadium Shell Filling Station and finish at Black Star Square, taking runners through central Accra’s bustling streets. The Osu-based route has become synonymous with the race over its decade-long history.
Race Director Cathy Morton emphasized the event’s dual purpose of promoting fitness and supporting charitable causes. She encouraged youth participation, noting that proceeds from the marathon contribute to community development projects across Ghana.
The substantial prize money represents a significant increase from previous years and positions the Millennium Marathon among West Africa’s most lucrative running events. This financial incentive is expected to attract elite athletes from across the region and beyond.
Major sponsors backing this year’s edition include KGL Foundation, Twellium Ghana Limited, and Fidelity Bank, alongside government support through the Ministry of Sports and Recreation. The National Sports Authority has provided logistical backing for the event.
Corporate partners Qualiplast, Interplast, Garmin, Star Oil, and DNL have also committed resources to ensure smooth race operations. The broad sponsor base reflects growing commercial interest in Ghana’s athletics scene.
The marathon has evolved significantly since its inaugural edition, gaining World Athletics certification and establishing itself as a premier sporting event in West Africa. The race combines competitive athletics with celebration of Ghanaian culture and hospitality.
Athletes can still register through Monday using the mobile code 80017#, though organizers expect slots to fill quickly given the enhanced prize structure. The simplified registration process aims to encourage broader participation across age groups.
The September 6 date positions the marathon strategically within Ghana’s sporting calendar, avoiding conflicts with major international competitions while capitalizing on favorable weather conditions. Morning temperatures typically provide ideal running conditions during this period.
International participation has grown steadily over the marathon’s history, with runners from across West Africa and beyond drawn to both the competitive element and cultural experience. The race showcases Accra’s vibrancy while promoting Ghana as a sporting destination.
Local athletics officials view the marathon’s success as indicative of growing interest in distance running across Ghana. The event has inspired numerous smaller races throughout the country and contributed to improved road running standards.
The Black Star Square finish provides a symbolic conclusion to the race, with the national monument serving as backdrop for victory celebrations. This location reinforces the event’s status as Ghana’s premier half marathon.
