Kingsley Onyia emerged winner in the male category of the maiden edition of the 2O kilometer Enugu Marathon tagged “run for the coalcity” over the weekend
The race which witnessed over 1500 runners from all spheres of life within and outside enugu, took off from the Michael Okpara Square, Independence Layout as participants ran across major streets of the metropolis through to the finishing point at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.
The Enugu State born indigene who had taken part in several marathon races within the country outclassed every runners wiith so much intensity and pace, returned home in a time of 1:09:04 secs.
Similarly, Affigbo Esther, a 30 year-old who reside in Lagos crossed the finish line in 1:21:26 secs to come out tops in the female category.
Both winners in the male and female categories cart home a whooping the sum of #500,000, medal and cartoons of malta drinks each.
Interestingly, the runner up and second runner up in the male and female categories were also rewarded the sum of #250,000 and #150,000 respectively.
Speaking to newsmen after the race, Kingsley Onyia expressed appreciation to the organisers of the event, hinting that he has been training for such kind of opportunity for a long time.
In her words, Affigbo Esther who is also a policewoman was satisfied with her performance, adding that such kind of program does not promote gender segregation.
Responding to participation and turnout of the event, Seniir Trade Marketing Manager of Nigeria Breweries PLC, Chidi Egwu was grateful to Enugu State government for giving them a good reception, noting that the marathon was a huge success.
On his part, Managing Director, Kuriocity Limited, Mr. Ororo Pattaya is optimistic that the event opened the channel were the youth of the state can showcase themselves, admonishing young and intending runners to continue working hard for subsequent events.
Similarly, the Commissioner, Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports, Hon. Manfred Nzekwe ably represented by the Director of Organizing in the same ministry, Mr. Boniface Onovo noted that event lived up to expectations, reaffirming that the ministry will continue support and develop talents for the future.
