Opobo Marathon Winners to Pocket $1,000

The winners of the 6th edition of Opobo Marathon scheduled for January 4th, 2024 are to pocket the prize money of $1,000 guaranteed by D’Consiglories Nigeria Limited & the Hope Initiative.

Henry Iyowuna Cookey,  the Project Lead of Opobo Marathon with the theme ‘Miles of Hope’, revealed this at a press briefing in Port Haercourt, where he also explained that there would be consolation prizes for the first ten runners-up and an indigenous category for the top three Opobo indigenes.

While disclosing that the previous editions of the marathon have had a cumulative total of more than 8,000 participants that included elite and fun runners, fitness enthusiasts, gym instructors and enthusiastic spectators from all works of life, he stated that no fewer that 1,500 were expected to register for next year’s edition.

According to him, “Opobo Marathon has always been more than a race, it’s an embodiment of our aspirations, dreams, and the unity that binds us together. Miles of Hope serves as a reminder that no matter how tough the journey, the destination is worth every ounce of effort. It signifies our commitment to pushing boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and striving for a brighter tomorrow.

“With a meticulously designed course that winds through the heart of Opobo, participants will experience the vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality that Opobo Kingdom is well-known for. 

“From seasoned runners to enthusiastic leisure runners, everyone is invited to take part in this inspiring event. After all, we are all winners at the end of the race.”

Cookey called on those willing to participate to note that the marathon, with free entrance, begins with registration between November 19 and January 1, 2024 via www.opobomarathon.com/register.

“In the coming weeks, we shall reveal more about the event’s highlights, and the various initiatives that will make the 6th Opobo Marathon a memorable and impactful experience for everyone,” he stressed.

The Project Lead praised the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara; Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler of Opobo Kingdom, HM, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja; Sody Peterside, MD of NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku; Dr Dakuku Peterside, Hon Dax George Kelly, Mrs. Sotonye Toby Fulton, Sobere Diri, Alhaji Danu Nasiru, Mr. Blessing Fubara, amongst several other sponsors and patrons for their support towards the marathon.

Also speaking, the chairman of Opobo/Nkoro local government area, Enyiada Cookey-Gam who was represented by the Supervisor for Youths and Sports, Hon Solomon Jaja, while announcing the sum of N1m for various categories, commended the organisers of the marathon and assured all that the local government was supporting fully to enable participants have a glorious event.