The much publicized Rivers International Marathon came to an end with pomp and ceremony on Saturday in Port Harcourt city.
Grang Boyi Nyango of Plateau State claimed the top prize in the men’s marathon with a time of 2:28:29 with Iliya Pam Nwanta (Plateau State) finishing in second place with a time of 2:39:09 while Istifanus Peter Mahan (Plateau) crossed the line in third place (2:41:42).
In the women’s competition, Arusei Peninah of Kenya won the race with a time of 2:48:23.
Blessing Shambor Solomon (2:57:38) came second with Charity Agofure completing the podium places with a time of 3:02:58.
The winners in the male and female categories took home the sum of $10,000.00 (ten thousand UD Dollars) apiece.
The Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialaye Fubara who attended the race whose finale was at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt also announced a cash donation of N1 million to the contestants who finished between the 2nd and 20th positions, respectively, in the male and female category.
Speaking after the conclusion of the event, Rivers State Sports Commissioner, Barr. Christopher Green expressed elation at the smooth manner in which the event was conducted.
“First and foremost, I want to thank the Almighty God for the successful completion of this first ever Rivers International Marathon. It wasn’t without its hitches but overall, we have to give it a pass mark.
“Like our sports loving Governor has stated, the next edition next year will be one of the biggest and the best marathons the country has ever seen.
“I also want top use this opportunity to thank His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State for the great support he showed which ensured that this event ended successfully.
“In his magnanimity, he donated the sum of five million naira each to winners of races in both categories and also doled out one million naira each to those who finished in the second to 20th position range. That is the act of a generous lover of sports which will serve as a huge motivation to the athletes”, Barrister Green concluded.
