Activities have gathered speed for the successful hosting of the 2022 Warri/Effurun Peace Marathon billed for November 26.
The 10km race is open to Nigerian athletes, but according to chief organiser, Joyce Bozimo, the event is looking to expand in future to include international athletes. “We plan to make the WEPM a big event in the world athletics calendar. “During the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games we were fortunate to meet with world athletics officials and had useful discussions on how we would go about it. “But for now our efforts are geared toward having a rewarding 2022 event, as usual we are expecting the best of Nigerian long distance runners and also we are looking to mobilise the City to be fully involved, it also meant to be fun and keep fit day,” said Mrs. Bozimo.
Already the 2021 champion, Ishmael Sadjo who set a new course and national record in the 10km with 29.45mins said he is looking forward to the race and is ready to retain his title and N1m top prize. “I am training really hard and ready to go back to Warri and run. It was fun the last time out and I am sure it is even going to be better this time around.”
The women’s race was won by Joy Abiye-David with a time of 35.02mins which was also a course record.
Mrs. Bozimo and WA President Sebastian Cole