Deputy Governor Comrade Philip Shaibu has reaffirmed Edo State readiness to host the first World Athletics’ Gold label 10km road race in Nigeria.
Shaibu said as much in Benin yesterday that every arrangement was in place for the world class race.
“We are ready to host another world class event come Saturday in Okpekpe, Etsako east local government area of Edo State,” Shaibu said , assuring of adequate security.
He said he’s delighted that the race has grown from being the first to be granted a label race in 2015 to becoming the first 10km gold label race in Nigeria.
“Our real target is the platinum. We want to score another first by being the first Platinum road race not only in Nigeria but in Africa this time around,” he noted.
“Okpekpe has always come with innovations and I am delighted runners can download their photos this time around.”
The deputy governor who was presented with his running bid for Saturday’s race by the race organiser, Mike Itemuagbor, has promised to improve on his timing in the race.
“Last year, I ran a new personal best and I am determined to run faster than that this year,” he said. Meanwhile, organisers said the race will be live on Supersport and AIT while it will also be live streamed on the Okpekpe Road Race Facebook page.
Photo caption: L-R: Akin Olamilokun, Itemuagbor , Shaibu and Jessar of Mylaps timing company