The Technical Director of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, Mr. Yusuf Alli, has explained why there were fewer runners this year, compared to past editions.
He disclosed that over 5,000 persons who had indicated interest to participate were disqualified because they failed to collect their kits on time.
Alli, on Saturday in Lagos, said that the last-minute rush by runners after the kit collection deadline compromised accurate runner records.
He stressed the importance of timely online registration and kit collection for adhering to World Road Race standards.
“There were fewer runners this year because many missed the kit collection deadline. We had to turn away about 5,000 who came on Thursday.
“If we allow late kit collection, we won’t have accurate runner numbers, which are crucial for our start sheet.
“People should respect deadlines. It’s not that we didn’t want them, but we must follow the rules for the benefit of all.
“The numbers will increase. We once had over 120,000 runners, but COVID-19 impacted participation. We’re gradually recovering,” he said.
