Ghana Launches Championship for Athletes Over 35 to Dream Big

Athletes in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond gathered at Kumasi's Baba Yara Sports Stadium to compete in Ghana's first Masters Athletics Championship. The January 9, 2026 event shattered the idea that competitive sports belong only to the young.

Dr. Fred Awaah, Board Chairman of Ghana's National Sports Authority, celebrated the athletes' commitment to staying active and competitive. He called the championship a significant step in promoting lifelong sports participation across the country.

The event brought together competitors aged 35 years and above across multiple age categories, with some athletes competing well into their 70s. Each race and field event carried a powerful message: physical activity and competitive sport remain beneficial at every stage of life.

Dr. Awaah encouraged participants to see this platform as more than just staying fit. He urged them to prepare for international master's competitions and represent Ghana with pride on the global stage.

The timing couldn't be better. Ghana will host the 24th African Athletics Championship in May 2026, where elite athletes from across the continent will compete for medals.

The Ripple Effect

This championship represents a cultural shift in how Ghana views athletics and aging. By creating competitive opportunities for older athletes, the country is building a pipeline of experienced competitors who can inspire younger generations.

Seth Panwun Boyoyo, President of the Ghana Masters Athletics Association, highlighted the organization's vision to keep older athletes competitive and visible within the sporting landscape. The association partnered with Royal Sports Arena and the Ashanti Regional Directorate to make the historic event possible.

Participants and organizers alike expressed optimism about the championship's future. The success of this maiden edition has already sparked conversations about annual competitions and growing participation numbers.

Dr. Awaah's message resonated beyond the stadium: Ghanaian athletes should dream big and aim to uplift their country's image through international competition. Whether competing at 25 or 65, every athlete carries the flag of Ghana.

The championship proves that dedication to fitness and competition doesn't retire when you hit middle age, it just gets more inspiring.