… Shaibu competes in VIP race, commends organisers
Mamo Lama of Ethiopia, over the weekend, emerged winner of the elite men’s category of the 10km Okpekpe Race with a time of 29:37 secs pocketing a princely sum of $15,000, as fellow Ethiopian, Aroge Getehn, finished second in 29:39 secs while Kenya’s Maxon Kyngetic finished third with a time of 29:58 seconds.
Also, in the women’s elite category, Silnat Pitwe of Ethiopia emerged first, clocking 34:18 seconds, slightly above compatriot, Mahait Kasahiou, who finished in 34:19 seconds, while Friday Ndinda of Kenya, placed third in 34:50 seconds.
In the Nigerian elite men’s category, Plateau State athletes dominated the podium. Raymond Ilya Gyang emerged first with a time of 30:29 secs, followed by Boyi James in 30:40 secs, while Sunday Rotshak finished third in 30:44.
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In the women’s category, Patient Daylop, clocked 36:42 secs to come top, just as Abuso Rose Thomas came second in 36:51 secs, while Vivian Nenyitwe came third with a time of 37:42 secs.
Beyond the official prize money provided by the organisers, a philanthropist, Mr Peter Dunia, announced additional cash rewards for the top Nigerian finishers. The first, second and third-place winners in both the men’s and women’s Nigerian categories received N3 million, N2 million and N1 million in that order.
The Director General of the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, who competed alongside former Governor of Edo State, Senator Adams Oshiomhole and other dignitaries in the VIP section, described the race as another testament to his commitment to sports development and healthy living.
Speaking with journalists at the finish line, Shaibu praised the consistency of the organisers of the Okpekpe Road Race, describing the event as one of Nigeria’s most successful international sporting competitions.
He said beyond the sporting excitement, the race continues to generate significant economic benefits for communities across Etsako land and Edo North Senatorial District, attracting visitors, athletes, officials and tourists from across Nigeria and beyond.
He also acknowledged the critical role of the government’s support in sustaining the race over the year, lauding the sponsors for their unwavering commitment to the growth of athletics in Nigeria.
The former deputy governor also spoke on the collaboration between the NIS and the organisers, praising the Institute’s personnel for playing active roles throughout the event.
He said, “Our medical team, researchers, media personnel and other staff members, including the South-South zonal coordinator of the Institute, were fully involved and provided support throughout the race.”
