The event being the first of its kind and being held successfully, they have to thank the Almighty Allah for the enabling environment, and as well President Jammeh for sponsoring the marathon, Faye said.
The turnout was good, and all competitors in all categories did their best, despite the short notice for the event, he added..
Asked why able-bodied athletes have to compete against Paralympics athletes, he said, “the disabled are part of us, and we do not want to discriminate them by giving them their own event.”
They agreed as an organising committee to include them in all categories of the races, he added, noting that all athletes started at the same time.
“I was at the start of the 15km race for women, and Isatou Nyang (Paralympics athlete who took second position) started with them. “No one lodged a complaint at the starting point; so why complaining here now.”
“We have to thank everyone for making the
event a success,” Pa Faye said, adding: “Possibly, the marathon will be an
annual event.”
