With five days to the maiden Abuja International Marathon scheduled, runners have expressed joy in participating in the first ever race in the Federal Capital Territory, The PUNCH reports.
According to the organisers, thousands of marathon enthusiasts from within and outside the Abuja have picked up their running kits for this weekend’s race.
Grace Bassey, one of the athletes who travelled from Suleja, Niger State to pick up her kits and will be running in the 10km race, expressed joy to participate in the marathon.
“History will be made April 29, 2023, when the first international marathon will take place in FCT, I have never missed an opportunity to be part of history. That was why I came here early to collect my kits, I don’t want to hear stories that the kits have finished. I will be running the 10km with my friends”
Also, A diplomat from one of the European countries, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, ”Running is part and parcel of my life; I have done races around the world where I have served. It will be great to experience a marathon in Abuja.
“Abuja is a beautiful city with an excellent road network; an international marathon will showcase the city to the world”.
The race is slated for April 29 and is in three categories: 5km student run, the 10km family run, and the 42km full Marathon.
About 30,000 runners, which include 50 foreign elite runners and 120 local elites, are expected to participate in the marathon and registration is still open for interested runners to participate in the race.
According to Race Director Olukayode Thomas, “Registration is free, it will close April 28, 2023, the last day of the expo.”
The race starts at the City Gate and ends at Eagles Square.
