Queen of the Mountain. A record 7 times winner of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope.
Sarah Liengu Etonge, also known as “The Queen of the Mountain,” is a Cameroonian athlete who has made history in the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope. She holds the record for the most wins by a female athlete, with an impressive seven victories.
The Mount Cameroon Race of Hope is an annual race that takes place on the highest mountain in West Africa, Mount Cameroon. The race covers a distance of about 42 kilometers and includes steep ascents and descents, making it a challenging and grueling race. The event attracts athletes from all over the world, but it is especially significant to the people of Cameroon, who view it as a symbol of national pride and unity.
Sarah Liengu Etonge was born on January 5, 1975, in Buea, a town at the foot of Mount Cameroon. Growing up, she was inspired by her father, who was a soccer player. However, she soon discovered her passion for athletics and began training in running.
In 1997, at the age of 22, Sarah competed in her first Mount Cameroon Race of Hope and finished in third place. She went on to compete in the race for the next ten years, and during that time, she won the women’s category a record-breaking seven times.
Sarah’s first win came in 1999 when she crossed the finish line in 4 hours, 35 minutes, and 47 seconds. She followed this up with wins in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, and 2006. Her dominance of the race during this period was unmatched, and she became a national hero in Cameroon.
Sarah’s success in the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope earned her numerous accolades and recognition both in Cameroon and abroad. In 2005, she was awarded the prestigious National Order of Merit by the President of Cameroon, Paul Biya, for her outstanding achievements in sports. She was also invited to participate in international marathons in countries such as France, Belgium, and Morocco.
Despite her success, Sarah faced numerous challenges throughout her career. She had to overcome financial difficulties to continue training and competing, and she also had to deal with injuries and illness. However, she remained determined and focused on her goals, and her hard work and dedication paid off.
Sarah Liengu Etonge retired from competitive running in 2008, but her legacy as the Queen of the Mountain lives on. Her record-breaking seven wins in the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope remain unmatched, and she continues to be an inspiration to young athletes in Cameroon and beyond.
In conclusion, Sarah Liengu Etonge’s achievements in the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope are a testament to her skill, determination, and resilience. Her record-breaking wins have made her a national hero and a role model for young athletes in Cameroon and beyond. She will always be remembered as the Queen of the Mountain, a title that she earned through hard work and dedication.