Record-breaking 2,334 runners to compete in 2024 Be More Race
The race, originally scheduled for June 15, was postponed to July 20 to honor former Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, who died in a plane accident and was a regular participant in the event.
LILONGWE, Malawi — A record-breaking 2,334 runners are set to participate in the 2024 Be More Race on Saturday, marking the highest turnout since Standard Bank Plc launched the annual Lilongwe half-marathon in 2017, writes AfricaBrief Correspondent.
The event, themed "Why We Run," aims to promote wellness and networking while raising funds for the Children's Learning Centre at Kamuzu Central Hospital's Pediatric Cancer Ward.
Tamanda Ng'ombe, Head of Brand and Marketing at Standard Bank Plc, expressed enthusiasm about the overwhelming response.
"Marathon enthusiasts and other stakeholders can look forward to an exciting race and colorful prize presentation on Saturday," Ng'ombe said.
"Apart from events on the 21-km track, we have prepared a music performance by Saint Realest, one of the country's leading afro-dancehall artists, an aerobics session, group games."
The race offers three categories: 5km, 10km, and a half-marathon of 21km.
Athletics Malawi (AM) President Kondwani Chamwala praised the event's impact on local athletics.
"The Be More Race has consistently fostered the growth of athletics in Malawi," Chamwala said. "Last year for instance saw Malawian athletes breaking the dominance of international runners, a trend they are determined to uphold this year."
Prominent Malawian distance runners, including Chikondi Mwanyali and South African-based Mphatso Nadolo, are expected to compete.
The race, originally scheduled for June 15, was postponed to July 20 to honor former Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, who died in a plane accident and was a regular participant in the event.