Happy FM, one of Ghana’s leading radio brands, in collaboration with Lakeside Marina Park, the nation’s premier recreational facility, successfully hosted the 15th edition of the annual Family Fun Run and Walk.
This highly anticipated event, held on Ghana’s Independence Day, continues to promote fitness, family bonding, and national pride.
The Happy FM/Lakeside Marina Park Family Fun Run and Walk, an annual 5km and 10km race, is designed to encourage healthy living and active lifestyles among Ghanaians.
This year’s milestone event was celebrated in grand style, reaffirming the organizers’ commitment to fostering wellness and community spirit.
The day commenced with an invigorating warm-up session led by EmmaGee Fitness, ensuring participants were well-prepared for the challenge ahead.
The 10km race, the most demanding segment of the event, kicked off first, followed closely by the 5km runners. Participants displayed remarkable endurance and enthusiasm, with most completing the race within an impressive 40-minute timeframe.
The competition was fierce, culminating in outstanding performances from the participants.
Donkor Nana Kyei Ernest was crowned overall fastest male runner, completing the race in 23 minutes and 36 seconds. Dever Sobo secured the title of fastest female runner with a time of 27 minutes and 09 seconds, while Fatawu Abubakar won the fastest teenager category with a time of 23 minutes and 58 seconds.
The Sobo family was honored with the Fastest Family Award, finishing with an average time of 26 minutes and 60 seconds. Additionally, Gabriel Atsu Avevor claimed the Fastest Over 60 Years Award, completing the race in 31 minutes and 13 seconds. Mercy Social Centre demonstrated exceptional teamwork, earning the Fastest School Team Award.
Mr. Ernest Boateng, Chief Executive Officer of Global Media Alliance (GMA) and a founding member of the Family Fun Run and Walk, recounted its humble beginnings.
“This initiative was born from a simple conversation between two running enthusiasts. Over the years, it has evolved into a nationwide movement, fostering a culture of fitness and community engagement. We are thrilled to see this vision continue to grow and deeply appreciate the unwavering support from participants and sponsors.”
Mr. Salah Kweku Kalmoni, Director of Lakeside Estate and a co-founder of the event, highlighted the event’s dedication to safety and excellence.
“The Happy FM/Lakeside Marina Park Family Fun Run and Walk has established itself as one of the most well-organized and secure races in Ghana. We adhere to stringent safety measures, including collaboration with the police and ambulance services. Our goal is to solidify this event as Ghana’s premier running experience, and we remain committed to continuous improvement.”
The 15th edition of the event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Dosh Insurance, Japan Motors Trading Co. Ltd., Blue Skies, Silver Star Tower, YFM, Omanfofro, Zen Fusion, Silver Star Auto, Lakeside Estate, Twellium Industries Limited, Silverbird Cinemas, Global Media Alliance, and Perception Management International.
As the Family Fun Run and Walk continues to grow, organizers remain dedicated to promoting fitness, unity, and community development in Ghana.
