In a stunning display of athleticism, Abdou Rachid Awale Elmi of Djibouti clinched victory in the 2km marathon on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the first-ever Sierra Leone Masters Athletics Marathon Championship.

Elmi, who was initially anticipated to compete in the half marathon, dominated the 2km event with a winning time of 01:03:17.

The international podium was rounded out by Alexander Joe Autto of Liberia, who secured second place with a time of 01:11:48, while local athlete Madi Sambola of the Western Region claimed third with a time of 01:42:17.

Speaking after the victory, Abdou Rachid Awale Elmi said he was happy to compete in the marathon and it is my first time to be in Sierra Leone. I hope to continue in other marathons in Sierra Leone if invited.

In the female 10K Marathon, Mary Kamara of the Western Region emerged triumphant with a swift time of 00:40:23. She was closely followed by Fatmata A Conteh of the Northern Region, who took second place with a time of 00:41:17, and Nenny Isata Kanu, also of the Northern Region, who finished third with a time of 00:44:21.

 “I feel good because I trained well for the marathon and I am looking forward for more competitions of such nature,” the champion, Mary Kamara stated.

The event was declared a resounding success by the organizing committee. Yayah Mansaray, the Acting Chairman of Masters Athletics, confirmed the positive outcome, stating, “The marathon was a success and I was impressed with the international athletes. We will try to give them more space so we can have more international athletes coming on board for the next edition.” The championship has set a promising precedent for future editions, aiming to further establish Sierra Leone as a destination for international Masters Athletics.