Okpekpe 10km Race Attracts Unprecedented Global Interest Ahead Of 11th Edition

The upcoming 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, scheduled for 23 May 2026, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in international interest, with organisers reporting a substantial increase in participation requests from elite athletes worldwide.

Zack Amodu, the Race Director of Organisation, revealed that athletes, particularly from East Africa (Kenya and Ethiopia) and Europe, have inundated organisers with online registrations and follow-up enquiries via WhatsApp and Facebook.

Amodu explained the challenge: “The requests have been massive. After registering online, they bombard us with messages asking why they are not confirmed. But we cannot confirm them because most do not have managers, and it is against World Athletics rules to deal directly with elite athletes without agents.”

He further emphasised the stringent selection process required for a World Athletics Gold Label event: “Our first consideration is to register as many gold-level running athletes as required to fulfil one of the conditions for organising a Gold Label race. After this, we then give consideration to other World Athletics-certified elite runners.”

The Okpekpe race holds significant prestige, being the first in West Africa to achieve label status in 2015 and remaining Nigeria’s premier road running competition. It is one of only two Gold Label 10km races in Africa this year. World Athletics technical delegate Norrie Williamson has lauded the event as “unique in its setting and organisation,” commending its challenging hilly terrain and adherence to Gold Label standards.

Former Edo State Governor and current Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, a key figure in the race’s inception through the development of crucial road infrastructure, remains a fervent supporter. Ahead of the 2026 edition, he shared his personal training routine, having walked 8.92km in 85 minutes as preparation. “Getting ready for Okpekpe race in May 2026. It’s good to start practising… To cover 10km in a mainly hilly environment with valleys, and fresh air,” Oshiomhole remarked, highlighting the race’s deep local roots and its significance as both a sporting and cultural event.

Organisers have extended the registration deadline for Nigerian athletes until early next month, encouraging local participation in what many from Edo State and neighbouring regions view as a festival. “We want as many Nigerians as possible to come, not just to savour the beautiful scenery of Okpekpe and the hospitality of the people, but also to be part of a Gold Label race,” Amodu concluded.

The Okpekpe International 10km Road Race continues to solidify its position on the global athletics calendar, blending world-class competition with vibrant local celebration and showcasing Edo State as a hub for international athletics.