As the clock ticks on the Warri Effurun Peace Marathon billed for November 25, Joy Abiye has vowed to make a strong showing and retake the title she won in the 2021 edition.
Last year Deborah Pam denied Abiye the chance to win a back to back title. Abiye did not even make the podium a shocking development for the athlete who dominated the women, while making her debut appearance.
“Last year I didn’t do well finishing fourth, but this time around, I am in good shape and ready to race,” said Abiye, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
“By God’s grace we will be in Warri Effurun to face whatever challenge, whether it’s 10km or 21km I am ready to run.”
Abiye beat Pam to win last week’s Lagos Women Run, perhaps to prove her point as she rehearsed for the race coming up in Warri. It promises to be a thrill as other runners like Patience Dalyop, Elizabeth Nuhu and Rose Akusho are determined to put up a fight for the title.
Meanwhile, corporate bodies and institutions of learning are gearing up for the relay contest. A good number of schools have registered for the event and are looking forward to participating in the fun run.
“This is part of our drive to have the entire community participate in the race,” said WEPM founder Mrs. Joyce Bozimo.
“I am calling on everyone to come out for the fun race, even those who are not running can come out and cheer up those who are running.
