Gebrselassie wants Lagos marathon season changed
Gebrselassie wants Lagos marathon season changed
By Agency Reporter
Published: Sunday, 22 Feb 2009
Track legend, Haile Gebrselassie, has advised the organisers the Glo Lagos Half Marathon to consider changing the timing of the race.
Several of the elite athletes complained about the hot and humid conditions which sapped their energy during the 21km race. The Ethiopian says this should be prevented in future after watching the athletes struggle with the 32 degree temperature on Saturday.
He said, ”It was a very well organised race and the only problem was that the conditions were not right. The weather made it a bit difficult for the athletes and they were not at their best.
”This is a big half marathon that attracts some of the world‘s best athletes and I believe it should be held when the weather is not so hot. You might not have winter in Nigeria but I‘m sure you have a period when the weather is cooler than this for this race which all Africans should be proud of.”
He said he was impressed with the strong field but believed it could even be stronger.
He said, ”Like I said, some of the world‘s best long-distance runners were here for the race. I‘m sure more will be encouraged to come if the race is held during the cold season.”
The weather was one of the reasons the world marathon record holder decided not to run on Saturday, but he said he would be available if his advice was taken.
He said, ”I‘d certainly love to run here after what I saw today. If the weather conditions are right, I‘ll not hesitate. I love this place and its people.”
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