Enugu City Marathon: Elite Runners Set For August 29 Showdown

Enugu is set to host the second edition of the Enugu City International Marathon on Saturday, August 29, with preparations for the 42km race and accompanying 10km event nearing completion.

The race, organised by Nilayo Sports Management in partnership with the Enugu State Government, will bring together elite and recreational athletes from Nigeria and other parts of Africa.

According to the organisers, key arrangements covering the race routes, medical services, water stations, traffic control and security have been concluded ahead of the event.

The 42km marathon will begin at 6:30am from ShopRite on Abakaliki Road, while the 10km race will start at 8:30am from Chris Tee Petrol Station on CIC Road, finishing at Opara Square.

The organisers said the marathon route would take participants through some of Enugu’s major landmarks.

Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, Yetunde Olopade, said registration had recorded a strong response from athletes, including elite competitors.

“I am really impressed with the registration turnout. Both local and international athletes and elite athletes have been trooping out to register for this marathon,” Olopade said.

She also encouraged emerging athletes from the South-East and South-South regions to register before the process closes.

The organisers said substantial cash prizes would be awarded to the leading male and female finishers in the elite marathon categories.

The event is expected to attract athletes, officials and spectators to the Coal City, with hotels and other businesses preparing for increased activity around race week.

Beyond the competition itself, the marathon is expected to provide an opportunity to promote athletics and showcase Enugu to visitors.

The second edition follows the inaugural race and comes as Nigeria continues to expand its calendar of road-running events aimed at providing competitive opportunities for athletes and encouraging grassroots participation in the sport.