Christopher Nnaji Vincent travelled from Port-Harcourt to participate in the 9th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.
In an interview with Sports 247, he shared his experience and motivations for joining the marathon.
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For Vincent, this was his first time participating in the marathon, and despite the challenges he faced during the 42km race, he expressed gratitude for being able to finish.
While he admitted feeling the physical strain post-race, he believed the experience was worthwhile.
In his words “This is the first edition I’m participating in and so far it’s been great. I thank God I was able to finish my race.
I ran the 42km and it was not so easy. I’m still feeling a lot of pain right now but I think it was worth it.”
When asked about his motivation for entering the marathon, Vincent revealed that it was partly driven by the prize but also by personal fulfilment.
Although he didn’t win this time, he remains determined to strive for success in future editions.
Despite moments of doubt and fatigue during the race, he found strength in the support of his family, who believed in him and eagerly awaited his participation.
“It was for the prize and though I don’t have it now, I’m looking forward to next time.
Moving along the way, it seemed for me to stop. I got to a point where I stopped running. I was walking.
But I had to pick up courage and keep moving because I know that back at home my family believed in me and they wanted to see me participate.
Winning was the goal but it didn’t come now. I have not changed my mind about that.”
Vincent also shared that he kept track of his time during the race, seeing it as motivation to improve in the future.
Finishing in approximately 3 hours, 48 minutes, and 15 seconds, he aims to beat this time in subsequent editions of the marathon, setting personal records and pushing himself to new limits.
Vincent’s journey exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and determination that characterizes marathon running.
His commitment to improving and his willingness to overcome obstacles highlight the transformative power of sports and the enduring allure of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.
