2,000 runners for maiden Ikogosi Marathon

No fewer than 2,000 runners, including 30 elite athletes have confirmed their participation in the Ikogosi Marathon race billed for Ikogosi-Ekiti on Saturday, the organisers have revealed.Also, the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has assured participants of adequate security and conducive environment for a hitch- free competition.Fayemi who spoke in his office when the organisers of the marathon race led by Niyi Labiran presented him with his race materials, said his administration would continue to provide platforms for citizens of the state, especially the youth, to showcase their talents.The Governor who restated his administrations commitment to youth development, said his administration would continue to partner with relevant organisations in the bid to build the capacity of Ekiti youths and develop sports in the state.Fayemi said his government would provide necessary support for the Ikogosi Marathon race and other sporting initiatives in the state in order to bring them to global standard.The Governor who said that the development of sports at the grassroots was a major agenda, said the state is eager to produce world class athletes.Labiran, the Managing Director of the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative, thanked the governor for his love for sports development and support for the marathon race.According to him, the 2,000 participants had already collected their race materials (including jersey, number and other items), since the collection exercise commenced on Monday. He added that 5,000 had registered online, while collection of materials will continue till today.The State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Michael Awopetu also said the state government has mapped out plans to nurture talents that are discovered in the marathon race and other age-grade sporting competitions in the state.
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