The inaugural edition of the Lere Funathon took place in Lagos with an impressive turnout and fierce competition, marking the beginning of what promises to be an annual sporting highlight.
The event concluded at the Union Bank Club on Bode Thomas Street, Surulere, with dignitaries and sports enthusiasts gathering to celebrate the athletes.
Among those in attendance were Hon. Fuad Laguda, a member of the House of Representatives, and Hon. Suleiman Bamidele Yusuf, the Chairman of Surulere Local Government.
They were joined by the Vice Chairman and Head of the Agriculture Department, showcasing strong local support for the event. Their presence underscored the significance of the event in promoting fitness and sportsmanship within the community.
The highlight of the day was the men’s and women’s races, where champions emerged after a grueling contest. In the men’s category, David Lakos Dapdil from Plateau State took the top spot with an impressive time of 32 minutes and 57 seconds. His determination and skill earned him the champion’s prize of N1 million.
The women’s race saw national marathon champion David Abiye continuing her dominance on the track, clinching the title with a finishing time of 37 minutes and 43 seconds. She too walked away with a champion’s prize of N1 million.
Second-place finishers in both the men’s and women’s categories were awarded N500,000 each, while the third-place runners received N250,000. This substantial prize money added an extra layer of excitement and competitiveness to the event.
As Hon. Fuad Laguda remarked during the closing ceremony, “The Lere Funathon is not just a race; it’s a celebration of our community’s strength, resilience, and dedication to a healthier lifestyle. We look forward to even bigger events in the future.”
The Lere Funathon has set a high standard in its first edition, promising a bright future for athletics in Lagos and beyond.
