Organisers of the first Rivers State International Marathon say the state is extending its frontier as the treasure base of Nigeria to become an international destination for sports.
Idah Peterside, head of media of the first full International Marathon to be held in the South South region of Nigeria, says the event is a confirmation of the state’s intention to make it a destination of sorts for sports globally.
‘The International Marathon has come at a time we have become, undisputably, the most performing state in sports in Nigeria. This has contributed, immensely, to the peace the state is enjoying now especially since His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara came on board as the Executive Governor of the state,’ said Idah.
According to Idah, it is time to let the whole world see how beautiful and peaceful Rivers State is as well as open up its tourism potential.
‘A healthy state will undoubtedly be a wealthy state. Sports, all over the world, has helped in keeping people healthy and one of the surest ways of encouraging people to keep and stay healthy is through road running events.
‘Regular running strengthens your heart, increases your aerobic capacity and helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It boosts one’s immune system and enhances fitness. We want to create a culture of regular running and jogging and we want to kickstart it with the Rivers International Marathon,’ added Idah.
The former Super Eagles goalkeeper, media officer and pundits on cable television, Supersports says the introduction of the 5km race was designed to get the young and the not too old to join the race as Rivers state hopes to encourage regular kip fit events after the race.
Meanwhile, registration is still open for intending runners, both professional and social, who want to make history at the race.
‘We are happy with the response from both professional and social runners who have been registering online and who have physically been picking forms as we countdown to the race.’
The first Rivers International Marathon will hold on Saturday, May 18, 2024 in the Garden City of Port Harcourt.
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