A Lagos-based athletics coach, Isaac Ikahbomeh, on Wednesday said that the continuous staging of the Access Bank/Lagos City Marathon would aid the development of long distance race in the country.
Cross Section of the 2017 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon Participant at the starting point in National Stadium Surulere Lagos.At the 2017 Access Bank Lagos City Marathon in Lagos.PHOTO;AKEEM SALAUThe marathon which is entering its third year would hold on Feb. 10 in Lagos.
Ikahbomeh said that it was a good thing that the international event had come to stay, noting that the country’s budding distance runners would continue to use it to hone their skills.
“Nigerians are not known for distance running but since the inception of the marathon in 2016, our athletes are showing more interest in it.
“The organisers have been consistent in staging the marathon and our athletes are using the opportunity to garner experience and learn from the Kenyans and Ethiopians who are experts in the field.
“So, for you to become the best you have to learn from the best and I must say that we are on the right track as far as distance running is concerned,’’ he said.
He commended the sponsors for sustaining the event and urged the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) to organise long distance running competitions for its athletes.
NAN reports that no fewer than 70,000 athletes and keep fit enthusiasts have registered for the event.
Kenya’s duo of Abraham Kiptum and Roda Jepkorir Tanui won the men and women race of the second edition in 2017 respectively. (NAN)
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Access Bank/Lagos City Marathon: Coach says annual event will aid budding long distance athletes
