Over 20,000 runners from across the world are expected to take part in the maiden edition of the Onitsha City marathon billed for October 5.
The race which coincides with the popular Ofala Festival has been endorsed by the Obi of Onitsha and several corporate bodies operating in the commercial city.
According to Chisom Okereke-Ekpe, Head of Marketing and Branding of the event, the maiden edition will only be a half marathon while subsequent ones will include both the 10km and 5km races.
In her words: “We are starting with just half marathon this year but from next year, it will definitely be bigger with the addition of the 10km and 5km races. The race will start by 6.30am and registration is absolutely free for everyone capable and ready”
She stressed that registration for the race will run through till the end of September to allow for more participants.
“Over 20,000 runners from across the world are expected to be part of the race,” Okereke-Ekpe disclosed.
The Onitsha City Marathon has secured the needed endorsements from all relevant professional bodies including the IAAF/AIMS following the expert touch by world-renowned Course measurer, Norrie Williamson from South Africa.
Meanwhile, organisers of the race will on Sunday, August 18, 2019, be in Lagos to meet selected members of the creme-de-la-creme of the Nigeria sporting press at the National Stadium, Surulere.
“We know the importance of the Lagos sporting press and its environs, that is why we have chosen to have a parley with them in order for all to be aware of what we are planning to do out there in Onitsha,” the organizers stated.
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