Lafarge Marathon attracts 2000
OVER 2000 participants have already registered for today's Lafarge Lusaka Marathon which will be held under the theme "Malaria Ends with Me: Beat the Buzz", Lafarge Zambia chief executive officer Vincent Bouckaert has said.
Speaking during the Lafarge Lusaka Marathon cocktail which was graced by the presence of first lady Ester Lungu, Bouckaert said that Lafarge Zambia was committed to complementing government efforts to help achieve the goal of a malaria free Zambia.
Bouckaert noted Lafarge would use today's marathon to promote a health living among participants of the marathon which has attracted more than 40 foreign participants, with the winners expected to walk away with a sum of K30, 000.
"We have made several efforts to ensuring that we hold a successful, well organized and safe event. All our participants have been covered with the support of our partners, Madison General Insuarance who will provide life assurance for every participants.
“We have also made every physical effort to enhance the safety and security on the route by working closely with the police, RTSA and Lusaka City Council," Bouckaert said.
Meanwhile first lady Ester Lungu who was the guest of honor at the cocktail commended Lafarge Zambia and the Zambia Amateur Athletics Association (ZAAA) for complementing government’s efforts to fighting Malaria which is responsible for the deaths of more than 2000 individuals annually.
Mrs Lungu called on Zambians to market Zambia's tourist potential to foreign runners who will participate at the Marathon.
The first lady challenged the ministry of sports to partner with the private sector to ensure that more events such as the Lafarge marathon are held in various parts of the country to give young people a chance to showcase their talents.
"The Lafarge Lusaka Marathon does not only target the professional athletes but the general public as well.
“It is an event meant to develop the spirit of marathon in Zambia. Zambia has so many talented young people who might not have opportunities to showcase their talents at events such as the Lafarge Marathon," Mrs. Lungu said.
And ZAAA treasurer Mutale Mpepo who spoke on behalf of ZAAA president Elias Mpondela commended Mrs Lungu who is also Lafarge Zambia foundation patron for promoting a health living through the Marathon.