By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-02-03 03:54:54
The sixth Opobo Marathon held in Nigeria showcased the impressive running abilities of Chimaobi Augustine Azubuike from Imo State, who was able to surpass more seasoned runners from across the country and secure the N500,000 prize money. His unexpected win came as a surprise to many, especially considering the attention surrounding the long-distance running prowess of participants from Plateau State.
In the men’s category, Azubuike managed to outshine his competitors, including runners from Plateau State, by demonstrating his mastery of the marathon course and crossing the finish line in first place. This victory marked his second appearance at the event and solidified his status as a rising star in the running community. Yusuf Babije from Plateau State secured the second position, while Eric Constance finished in third place, earning N200,000 and N100,000 respectively.
On the women’s side, Blessing Bulus from Plateau State claimed the top spot and a cash prize of N500,000. She exhibited exceptional skill and determination, leaving the second and third positions to Charity Agofure from Delta State and Saibu Yetunde from Ogun State, who received N200,000 and N100,000 respectively.
The event also recognized outstanding performances in two special categories. Jaja Tamuno emerged as the winner in the indigenous category, while 15-year-old Queen Nwidah became the youngest runner to complete the marathon and received a prize of N50,000.
In a post-race interview, Azubuike expressed his astonishment at his victory, particularly given the presence of more experienced runners. He attributed his success to his knowledge of Opobo, which he had gained through reading about the town while growing up. The Amanyanabo of Opobo, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, who himself participated in the leisure category, praised the level of competition and the diverse representation of athletes from different states.
Iyowuna Cookey, the Team Lead for the Opobo Marathon, extended gratitude to the Amanyanabo, as well as to sponsors such as Platform Petroleum Limited, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), D’Consiglories Nig Limited, and Opu ALABO Foundation. Additionally, Cookey thanked the athletes and dignitaries for their support and active participation, which greatly contributed to the success of the marathon.
Notable figures in attendance at the event included the Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Council, Enyiada Cookey-Gam; Former Deputy Speaker Federal House of Representatives, Austin Opara; former NNPC Executive Vice President Upstream Sector, Adokiye Tombomieye; Senibo Sody Peterside; CEO D’Consiglories Nig. Limited, Blessing Fubara; former Commissioner for Information, Rivers State, Alabo Chris Finebone; Emma Okah; Prof Iyalla Peterside; and retired Super Eagles goalkeeper, Bishop Idah Peterside. The collective presence of these individuals underscored the significance of the Opobo Marathon within the Nigerian sports landscape.
