ABEOKUTA – 18-year-old Francis James from Plateau state, Nigeria won the men’s category of 4th edition of Lotus Bank Abeokuta 10km Race, while Blessing Shambaz came first with her time best of 35:58sec.
The Nigeria born sprinter, Francis crossed the finish line in 30 minutes 11 seconds, Gyang Raymond also from Plateau State came second with 30 minutes 14 seconds while Coupang David Boyi and Ismer sadjo came joint third with 30 minutes 54 seconds.
In the female category, Blessing Shambaz came first with her time best of 35 minutes 58 seconds, Daylop Patience came second with 36 minutes 51 seconds.
Speaking at the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun who was represented by his deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele said the present administration would continue to partner various stakeholders towards the development of sports in the state.
Governor Abiodun commended the organizers for their continued efforts to sustain the race which he described as a good step ahead of the National Sports Festival.
The promoter of the race, Chief Bukola Olopade said plans were on to ensure that the organizers of Abeokuta 10km race get a bronze label from the International Athletics Federation (IAAF) ahead of the a5th edition of the race.
Meanwhile, the winners of the race in both male and female categories went home with $1,000, first runners up got $750, while the 2nd runners up got $500 respectively.
The para-athletes were also rewarded with N1million naira each by the headline sponsor
