Plateau State indigene, Francis James and Patience Daluop have emerged winners in the male and female categories of the 2024 Enugu State Coal City Half marathon today.
The road race which was organized by the Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports in collaboration with a new generation bank, commenced from the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, as the athletes ran through major streets and roads to the admiration and cheer of residents and sports enthusiasts.
However, 17 year old, James who won the just concluded Abuja Marathon last week, breasted the tape in a time of 1: 12: 02 seconds in the male category, while female sensation, Patience Daluop crossed the finished line in 1:25:51 seconds.
Speaking to newsmen after the race, James stressed that it was determination and hard work that saw him through despite arriving late at the venue, while expressing gratitude to the organizers.
Also speaking, female sensation, Patience Daluop who was excited about her performance, hinted that she has been involved in several marathon races in the past.
On her part, Zonal Coordinator of the Bank, Mrs. Njideka Aro, appreciated the state government for its gesture, saying that they are open to more collaboration in subsequent programs.
Reflecting on the assessment of the event, the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, LIoyd Ekweremadu, noted that despite the state athletes not among the top winners in the competition, he assured that their athletes will live up to expectation in next edition.
In his words, Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah congratulated their partners and athletes that participated in the event, promising that next year’s edition will be bigger and better.
The hallmark of the event was prize and dummy cheque presentation of one million naira to the winners by the state governor.
