East African runners asserted their long-distance supremacy at the inaugural Enugu City International Marathon, sweeping the top prizes in both the men’s and women’s elite 42km categories.
Athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia put on a world-class performance in a marathon that marked a major milestone for Nigeria’s sporting calendar. The event drew hundreds of participants and spectators, underscoring Enugu State’s rising profile as a hub for international sports tourism.
Women’s Elite Marathon: Kenya and Ethiopia Lead the Pack!
In the women’s elite race, Shaoline Chepriroi of Kenya blazed through the finish line in 2:44:37, securing the $15,000 top prize. She was closely followed by Tilahu Birul of Ethiopia, who clocked 2:45:10 and received $10,000. Another Kenyan, Rita Busiengy, came in third at 2:47:17, taking home $5,000.
Nigeria’s Blessing Shambo emerged as the top-performing local female athlete, placing fourth with a time of 2:48:04 and winning ₦1 million. Fellow Nigerians Charity Agofure and Elizabeth Pam finished behind her in the national category, earning ₦750,000 and ₦500,000 respectively.
Men’s Elite Marathon: Kenyan Trio Sweeps the Podium!
In the men’s elite 42km race, Ken Kopos of Kenya took first place with a time of 2:22:32, winning the $15,000 grand prize. He was followed by compatriots Steve Baswey and Bernard Sang, who claimed second and third positions, earning $10,000 and $5,000 respectively.
The top Nigerian male finisher, Davou Gyang, finished in 2:29:03, narrowly edging out Boyi Nyango. Iliya Pam took third in the Nigerian category. The trio received ₦1 million, ₦750,000, and ₦500,000 in prize money.
Governor Mbah Completes 10km Race!
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, joined participants in the 10km road race, completing it in 45 minutes. He described the marathon as a landmark event for the state and emphasized his administration’s commitment to using sports as a vehicle for economic growth and international visibility.
“We set out to turn the Enugu City Half Marathon into an international event, and we have achieved that,” Governor Mbah said. “Next year, we aim to attract elite runners from around the world and make this marathon a permanent fixture on the global athletics calendar.”
10km Road Race Results!
In the women’s 10km category, Lydia Akusho, Esther Afigbo, and Mwantiti Davou claimed the top three positions. The men’s race saw Francis James, Iliya Raymond, and Boyi Gang finish first, second, and third, respectively.
Global Standards and Distinguished Guests!
The event was supervised by World Athletics, represented by Nadeem Khan, President of the International Ultra Runners Association. Also present were key figures from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, including President Chief Tony Okowa and Chief Solomon Ogba, 1st Vice President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee.
Top dignitaries who graced the event included:
- Honourable Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives!
- Honourable Emeka Ihedioha, former Governor of Imo State!
- Honourable Uchenna Ugwu, Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly!
- Several commissioners, lawmakers, and sports officials!
Governor Mbah commended Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, and Yetunde Olopade, MD of Nilayo Sports Management Ltd., for their efforts in delivering a world-class marathon.
Written By Queen Diana Story
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