Welcome to the General Information page for the Black Star Marathon. Here, you’ll find essential details about all our races and resources to help runners and participants prepare for race day.
The open registration starts from February and ends on July race day. Interested participants can register on this website. Successfully registered participants will receive regular updates before and after the events to ensure that you have a stress-free experience.
Runners registered for the 2026 Black Marathon are required to follow the following rules and regulations:
By submitting your application, you are agreeing to enter into the event, pay the required fee for your race category (and according to whether you are a Ghanaian national or an international participant), participate on race day, abide by the rules and the Conditions of Entry, the event conditions, and any instructions provided by the officials of the Black Star Marathon.
Participants are subject to the rules of the Ghana Athletics Association. Wheelchair athletes are subject to the rules of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana. If there are any conflicts between these rules and the Agreement, the Agreement shall take precedence).
The Black Star Marathon reserves the right to change the course or make any alterations to the event deemed necessary. Such changes will be communicated to participants as soon as practicable.
The event may be televised, filmed, and/or otherwise recorded and photographs may be taken, all of which may capture your participation in the event. All participants agree to the publication of such photographs, filming, recording, and broadcasts as their use by the organizer and those authorized by the organizer in any way deemed fit now or in the future, including but not limited to film, broadcast, radio, television, publications and publicity.
Only runners who paid the required registration fees in full and completed the races (going through all sections of the routes) are eligible to receive their cash prizes, medals, certificates, and other prizes.
Moreover, all participants must comply with the following provisions:
The 42.2 km marathon is a celebration of endurance, resilience, and community building in the marathon fraternity across the globe.
Entry into the race can be through any of the following channels:
The Black Star Marathon offers a challenging and scenic route through Accra’s streets and past its most iconic landmarks. The course is designed to test the physical endurance of all participants while providing a beautiful backdrop of Accra’s rich cultural heritage. Runners will pass through bustling city streets and enjoy the coastal views along the way, making the race as visually captivating as it is challenging.
The Absa City Marathon 42.2k course starts and finishes at Independence Square.
Glide along the scenic La Beach Road, passing the La Police Station to the Trade Fair Junction, then make a U-turn at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, with cheering fans urging you on. Power your way up through the La Trade Fair Centre.
Feel the energy as you run past El-Wak Sports Stadium and the stately Jubilee House.
Dash through the city, racing by major landmarks like the Octagon, Holy Spirit Cathedral, and Kwame Nkrumah Circle.
Rise to the challenge as the route loops through Abossey Okai and the renowned Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
Push forward through community hotspots like Mamprobi Post Office, Banana Inn, Kit Kat, and Dansoman Exhibition.
Finish strong as you power down Old Winneba Road and returning triumphantly to Independence Square, completing your 42.2KM legacy.
Aid stations are placed throughout the route to keep you fueled and focused.
Get ready for an exhilarating experience at the Black Star Marathon, a world-class road race that spans the vibrant city of Accra. This prestigious event, marking a major milestone in the world of athletics, will feature professional runners across three categories: Men, Women, and Wheelchair Athletes. With a challenging course covering 42.2 kilometers, this marathon is not just a test of speed, but of endurance, strength, and the human spirit.
Men’s and Women’s Elite Races: Featuring some of the best marathon runners from around the world, these races will showcase the incredible athleticism and mental toughness required to conquer the full marathon distance. Whether they’re seasoned pros or rising stars, the runners will battle it out on Accra’s roads for a chance to leave their mark on history.
Wheelchair Professionals: In a true testament to the power of perseverance, wheelchair athletes will also compete, showing what true determination looks like. These athletes will push themselves to their limits, navigating the course with strength, skill, and incredible resilience.
The categories for this racing event include:
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-time spectator, the Black Star Marathon is an event you won’t want to miss. For athletes, it’s a chance to test your limits on a world-class course. For fans and spectators, it’s an opportunity to witness the incredible stories of determination and achievement in real-time.
The marathon promises to be a day full of energy, excitement, and inspiration. Beyond the elite races, there will be a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment, local food, and a celebratory spirit as the city comes together to cheer on the athletes.
This is more than just a marathon; it’s a celebration of what it means to challenge yourself, to push beyond limits, and to come together as a community. The Black Star Marathon is a historic event that will leave a lasting legacy for the city of Accra, for the athletes who participate, and for the people who witness it.
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this spectacular event. Whether you’re running, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, the Black Star Marathon is an experience that promises to inspire and unite.
The 10k Run/Walk is a celebration of endurance, resilience, and community building in the marathon fraternity across the globe.
Entry into the race can be through any of the following channels:
The Black Star Marathon offers a challenging and scenic route through Accra’s streets and past its most iconic landmarks. The course is designed to test the physical endurance of all participants while providing a beautiful backdrop of Accra’s rich cultural heritage. Runners will pass through bustling city streets and enjoy the coastal views along the way, making the race as visually captivating as it is challenging.
BSM 10k Run/Walk/Wheelchair:
Cruise through the vibrant stretch along Danquah Circle, race past Police HQ, and surge up to Sankara Interchange.
Descend through Ridge Roundabout, the Accra Sports Stadium, Osu Cemetery, and back toward the finish line, completing a 10K filled with passion, pride, and power! Aid Stations & 
Distance Markers are positioned strategically to keep you safe, refreshed and motivated.
Elite Runners: The 10K will feature some of the finest athletes from across the world, showcasing incredible speed and endurance as they race through Accra’s streets.
Community Runners: Open to everyone, this category invites runners of all abilities to join the excitement, whether you’re a first-time participant or a seasoned runner.
Wheelchair Athletes: The 10K also includes wheelchair racers, demonstrating that true strength comes in many forms.
The categories for this racing event include:
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-time spectator, the Black Star Marathon is an event you won’t want to miss. For athletes, it’s a chance to test your limits on a world-class course. For fans and spectators, it’s an opportunity to witness the incredible stories of determination and achievement in real-time.
The marathon promises to be a day full of energy, excitement, and inspiration. Beyond the elite races, there will be a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment, local food, and a celebratory spirit as the city comes together to cheer on the athletes.
This is more than just a marathon; it’s a celebration of what it means to challenge yourself, to push beyond limits, and to come together as a community. The Black Star Marathon is a historic event that will leave a lasting legacy for the city of Accra, for the athletes who participate, and for the people who witness it.
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this spectacular event. Whether you’re running, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, the Black Star Marathon is an experience that promises to inspire and unite.