Over 1,000 runners set to participate in maiden 10km Capital City Marathon

Posted : 20 November 2024

The organisers of the 10km Capital City Marathon announced on Wednesday that over 1,000 runners are set to participate in the inaugural race.

Dapo Ajayi, the convener of the race, stated that the organisers decided to close registration to manage the number of participants. He added that those who had successfully registered had already started receiving their kits.

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Speaking at a press briefing for the maiden 10km Capital City Marathon, the Director General (D-G) of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting private initiatives aimed at promoting sports tourism.

He emphasized the commission’s resolve to back efforts that advance sports tourism in Lagos State.

Fatodu, representing the state government, assured that Lagos would welcome individuals and corporate bodies willing to align with the THEMES Plus Agenda championed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The press briefing was held in the conference room of the LSSC at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere.

Fatodu also highlighted the government’s unwavering dedication to ensuring citizens maintain good health through active physical exercise, with events like marathons providing an excellent opportunity for such activities.

“Lagos will not relent in its commitment to fostering a culture where sports and physical activities are not just pastimes but integral to daily life.

“It is important to continue using the platform of sports to promote inclusivity, community relations, partnerships, peace, and uncover hidden potential.

“We also aim to create platforms where everyone can come together in an atmosphere of friendliness and express themselves,” he said.

He further stated that the commission would encourage and support private sector collaborations to enhance sports engagement in the state.

“We’ve seen the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon reach the pinnacle of races in Africa. This initiative brings innovation to sports engagement within our community.

“Many people are unable to participate in the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. Events like this create opportunities for broader participation.

“The significance of hosting the race in Ikeja lies in its centrality, which allows more residents to engage in sports activities within their localities.

“This collaboration is crucial and has the full backing of our Governor,” he added.

Ajayi, the convener, explained that the goal of the Capital City Marathon is to promote healthier living among Lagosians.

“Our aim is to encourage healthy lifestyles. This is the first edition, and we promise it will become an event people look forward to annually.

“We wouldn’t have achieved this level of participation without the support of the Lagos State Sports Commission.

“For us, it’s about fitness, inspiring people to embrace active lifestyles. Nigeria has a large youth population that needs to stay engaged, and races like this provide opportunities to exercise and socialize,” he said.

Ajayi also revealed plans to expand the race to other state capitals across Nigeria.

“The Capital City Marathon is unique in its concept. When we launched, we received invitations from various states to bring the event to their capitals.

“Our vision is to hold the marathon in all 36 state capitals by 2026, creating a calendar of races throughout the year.

“We are ready for Saturday. Registration is complete, kits have been distributed, and ambulances, security personnel, and traffic officials are fully prepared,” he said.

The 10km Capital City Marathon is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23.

The race will start at Ikeja Mall, proceed through Billings Way, loop to Kudirat Abiola Way, and cross the Opebi Link Bridge.

Runners will continue along Opebi Road, Allen Avenue, Adeniyi Jones, and Oba Akran Avenue, ending at the Police College Sports Secretariat/Gym on Kodesoh Street.

The top three finishers will receive cash prizes of ₦500,000 for first place, ₦300,000 for second place, and ₦200,000 for third place.

Over 1,000 runners set to participate in maiden 10km Capital City Marathon

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