By Olanrewaju Agiri
Seven hundred (700) long-distance runners, including past winners, have registered to compete in the Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon race scheduled for this weekend after a four-year break.
Every arrangement has been made to have the 12th Splash FM Ibadan City Marathon flagged off by 7am at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan (formerly Liberty Stadium), with the expected routes to include Stadium-Iyaganku-Alesinloye-Eleyele-Sango-Ojoo-Iwo Road, Gate down to Bere-Oja Oba-Challenge, and back to the Liberty Stadium.
The General Manager of Operations, Splash FM, Tunde Olawuwo, stated this during a press conference held in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo state, on Wednesday to commence the 42-kilometer road race.
“Even in the break, the marathon’s heartbeat never stopped; it only stayed silent, waiting for the right moment to return. That moment is now, and we are elevating it in every sense of the word. This isn’t just a race; it’s a homecoming,” Olawuwo declared.
He added that the event, which cost about ₦30 million, stated that the overall winner will receive the sum of ₦1.2 million in the male category, while the first female finisher will get ₦800,000. He stressed further that medals will be awarded to the top 20 runners, while every participant who completes the 42 km course will receive a certificate.
“When we reward excellence, we inspire more excellence. We want our athletes to know their grit, sweat, and discipline matter. This marathon belongs to Ibadan, and its success will be our shared victory. Beyond the physical strength, the program is a symbol of Ibadan resilience and a way of showcasing our city,” he added.
Speaking further at the event, the Oyo State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, revealed that the Engr Seyi Makinde-led administration was the first to officially identify and sponsor the marathon race.
“Since the marathon’s inception in 2008, no administration before ours has been as committed to this event as we are. This is not coincidence; it is leadership that believes in the power of sports to transform lives.”
She added that the event aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision of grassroots sports development, youth empowerment, and tourism growth while pledging the continuous support of the state government.
Speaking in the same vein, the Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Council, Mrs. Evelyn Fabunmi, further commended the collaboration between Splash FM and the Oyo State Government while urging residents of Ibadan to come out and share the athletes.
