WHAT started as a source of livelihood for Harrison Oghenebro has become a source of joy after the commercial motorcyclist was crowned champion of the maiden Motocross Naija competition in Evbuobanosa in Benin City, Edo State.The tourney tagged, 'Clash of the Bikers' and which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, and indeed Black Africa, attracted those who really mattered in the biking world with the best bikers from across the country and Europe in Evbuobanosa to either participate or witness the epoch-making event.With a winning time of 27:48 minutes, Oghenebro beat his close rival, Jerry Omigie, to second place with Omigie returning in 27:52, while John Obasogie was third with a time of 28:24. An elated Oghenebro said he was not too sure of his participation before the completion as he was indisposed during the week. But after he was treated by his nurse wife, he was able to compete.'I never wanted to participate in the competition because of malaria attack I had during the week, but my wife encouraged me and treated me. Even now, I'm still feeling the pains from the injection I took,' he said.On what he intended doing with his N150,000 prize money, Oghenebro said: 'I'll add money to it and buy a big bike so as to be able to do continuous practice and prepare for upcoming competitions.'In a chat with The Guardian, the initiator and sole sponsor of Motocross Naija competition, Oduagbon Okao, said: 'I've always been a great fan of motosports. It's my hubby and I love the speed but it is painful that my hubby is not recognised in my country, which is one of the driving forces behind Motocross Naija.'Okao was indeed very happy that the maiden edition of the competition finally kicked off on Sunday: 'I'm pleased with the large turnout of bikers and spectators. Considering that this is just the maiden edition, I think it was impressive, though there are still some grey areas to be improved on,' he said. 'I'm using this opportunity to call on corporate organisations and governments to join hands in promoting Motocross Naija.'One of the dignitaries at the occasion, HRH Enogie Prof. G.I Akezua, said when Okao approached him for land for his pet project, he never had any doubt about his dream and what it would become. He stated: 'I never had any doubt in my mind about the success of the project because of the determination I saw in him.
Click here to read full news..
