Okpekpe 10km Race Retains World Athletics Gold Label Status

The Okpekpe International 10km Road Race has retained its prestigious Gold Label status from World Athletics, reaffirming its standing among the world’s elite road races and solidifying its reputation as Africa’s leading 10km event.

Since its inception in 2013, the race has evolved from a modest initiative in the hills of Edo State into a globally recognised competition. It made history in 2015 as the first road race in West Africa to earn a World Athletics label, progressing from Bronze in 2015 to Silver in 2018, before attaining Gold status in 2022.

The 11th edition is scheduled for Saturday, 23 May 2026, and will uniquely be the only World Athletics Label road race taking place anywhere in the world on that day—ensuring global attention remains firmly on Nigeria.

The race begins at Apana Road and winds through a challenging route of tarred roads and undulating hills before finishing in Okpekpe town, offering a true test of endurance over the 10km distance.

Kenya’s Daniel Ebenyo holds the men’s course record at 28:28, while Kenya-born Kazakhstani Caroline Chepkoech Kipkirui set the women’s record of 32:38—further underlining the world-class quality of athletes the race attracts.

Beyond competition, the event has become a major cultural and economic showcase for Edo North Senatorial District, transforming Okpekpe into a hub of tourism, commerce and celebration each year.

Race Director Zack Amodu described the renewed status as a reflection of sustained excellence.

“The renewal of our Gold Label status is a testament to the standards we have maintained over the years. Okpekpe is not just a race; it is Africa’s pride and Nigeria’s gift to the world,” he said.

With registration already underway, anticipation is building for what promises to be the biggest edition yet, as the race continues to promote tourism, investment and cultural exchange in Edo State.