Elite runners set for Warri/Effurun Peace Marathon

Leading Nigerian long-distance athletes are set to compete in the 2023 Warri Effurun Peace Marathon (WEPM). Over 2000 professional and recreational runners are expected at the event billed for November 25.

This year’s race is expected to feature corporate and schools’ marathon relay.

Emmanuel Gyan, who emerged champion in 2022, will face stiff challenge from Ishmael Sadjo and Stephen Dalyop, while in the women’s race veteran runner, Deborah Pam, will have her hands full contending with Joy Abiye, Elizabeth Nuhu and Patience Dalyop.

Gyan and Pam were surprise winners last year, but Sadjo and Abiye have spoken of their resolve to avenger their unceremonious loss in 2022.

“It is going to be an interesting day at the Warri/Effurun Peace Marathon, because the athletes are ready for a tough contest and the top prizes.

“My athletes in particular have trained hard and are ready for the challenge,” said coach Stephen Nuhu.

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This is the eighth edition of the 10km race, which was meant to be a fun run to promote peace and unity in Warri and its environ, but the national elite athletes gatecrashed the event and the organisers had no choice but to welcome them.

“It’s a race Nigerian elite runners and fun seekers look forward to every year and we on our part have always worked to make everything go well,” said the WEPM chief organizer, Mrs. Joyce Bozimo.

“We have a lot planned for this year and as usual all athletes winning prizes would be promptly settled.”

The event is sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) and supported by the Delta State government.