The early morning sun stretched over the College of Computing at McPherson University, casting long shadows of anticipation across the pavement. Lined up at the starting point were student-athletes, nerves masked by calm expressions, hearts pounding in rhythm with the countdown. With a symbolic whistle blow from the Acting Registrar, Mr. Olufemi Adebowale, the university’s 12th Annual Marathon began, not just a race for medals, but a test of resolve, discipline, and quiet personal battles.

From the very first stride, Balogun Oluwatosin Yunus a 300-level student of Biochemistry, the reigning champion, asserted his presence. A familiar face at the front, he had no intention of surrendering his title. “This year was harder than the last,” he admitted after crossing the finish line, gold medal in hand. “My endurance dropped, but I kept pushing. I just wanted to prove again and not only to myself, but to others that they can rise to any challenge if they’re determined.”

Finishing just behind him was Oyebanji Timilehin, a 100-level Computer Science student, a national medalist by all standards. He powered through the race alongside teammates he had trained with for weeks. For him, the motivation was as practical as it was personal. “We trained every day. Our running spikes were damaged from a previous competition, so we needed this win to afford new ones,” he said. “This race gave us something to aim for, and we’re grateful for the opportunity.”

But interestingly the most emotionally resonant story came from David Bassey, who defied more than just physical exhaustion to finish third. “I’m asthmatic,” he shared candidly, his bronze medal gleaming under the sun. “That’s been a constant battle in my athletic journey and life generally. But Timilehin kept encouraging me to keep training. Today, I proved to myself that I could overcome it.”

While the male category brimmed with close competition, the female race told a different kind of story, one of quiet courage. Sabitu Mariam Damilola, arrived at the starting line expecting to see another female athlete. But as it turned out, she was the only one. “I was shocked,” she said. “For a moment, I thought of not running at all. But then I reminded myself that this was about more than competition, it was about finishing something I started.” She paced herself, blocked out the pressure, and ran her race all the way to the finish line, earning a gold medal and respect far beyond the course.

At the finish line, cheers erupted as certificates were presented to all participants in a medal ceremony sponsored by Globus Bank, Stomach Option (a popular eatery on campus), and 3DeFrank featuring dignitaries from various colleges on campus. Medals were presented to the top finishers, including cash prizes ₦50,000 for first place, ₦30,000 for second, and ₦20,000 for third.

During the medal ceremony, the Acting Registrar, Mr. Olufemi Adebowale representing the Vice-Chancellor, commended all the athletes for their courage and resilience. “Winning today is not the end, but the beginning of greater challenges,” he said. “Whether you stood on the podium or not, you’ve shown that you have what it takes to rise.”

More than a sporting event, this year’s marathon was a living metaphor for personal growth, perseverance, and the spirit of McPherson University. Each runner crossed more than just a finish line. They crossed a threshold into something greater, belief in themselves.