By -alusinerehme.wilson@awokonewspapersl.com
Makeni, Sierra Leone – History has been made ahead of this year’s Sierra Leone Marathon (SLM), as the annual event has officially sold out — three days before the starting gun.
Organized by the UK-based charity Street Child International, the marathon has, for the first time in its 12-year history, reached its full registration cap of 1,000 participants before race day.
The sold-out status marks a major milestone for an event that began with modest ambitions but has since grown into one of Sierra Leone’s most iconic athletic and charitable gatherings.
Set for this Saturday in the bustling city of Makeni and its surrounding terrain, the SLM is more than just a race — it’s a movement. It unites runners from across Sierra Leone and around the world in a shared mission: to raise funds and awareness for vulnerable children and families in the country.
“This is more than a marathon; it’s a celebration of unity, purpose, and hope,” said Local Race Director Alusine Kanu. “Seeing the event sell out is a testament to the power of community and the cause we stand for.”
To kick off marathon weekend, organizers held a spirited gathering Friday night at Wusum Hotel’s conference hall, co-hosted by the hotel’s management and Street Child. The evening also served to officially launch the “Visit Makeni” initiative — aimed at promoting tourism in the northern region. International participants, especially those from the UK and beyond, were treated to cultural displays, music, and a warm Sierra Leonean welcome.
This year’s event features four race categories — full marathon, half marathon, 10 kilometers, and 5 kilometers — catering to both elite athletes and recreational runners. The growing popularity of the race reflects not only its competitive spirit but its purpose-driven impact.
Public Relations Officer Mohamed Bah noted the significance of the record-breaking turnout. “This kind of response shows just how much people — locally and internationally — are invested in our mission,” he said. “It’s not just about running; it’s about making a difference.”
Attractive cash prizes await the top finishers in each race category. Winners of the full marathon will take home NLe 5,000, while second and third place will receive NLe 3,000 and NLe 1,500 respectively. Half marathon winners will earn NLe 3,000, NLe 1,500, and NLe 1,000. For the 10K, the top three will be awarded NLe 1,000, NLe 850, and NLe 750. The 5K winners will pocket NLe 1,000, NLe 800, and NLe 600.
Founded by Street Child’s Tom Dannatt, the SLM has evolved from a charity initiative into a flagship event that brings together sport, tourism, and social impact.
Today, the Sierra Leone Marathon stands not just as a race, but as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when communities rally together for a cause — a brighter future for Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable children. ARW/4/5/2025
, as the annual event has officially sold out — three days before the starting gun.){kind=link}