The optimism expressed by former Ogun State Commissioner for Sports , chief Bukola Olopade during the media Parley that " I hope that Nigerian athletes would gave their Elite athletes a good run for their money" going by the facts that past editions were won by foreign athletes, came to fruition as 18 year old Francis James from Plateau State emerged winner of the 10 kilometre Abeokuta marathon race.
The Nigeria born sprinter breasted the tape at 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.
While in the Wheel chair race, Chula Muritala Enwerem came first,Adefala Nofisat came second. In male category, Sola Opalaye emerged winner , Sefiu Ojeleye came second and Akannì Jelili took third position
Speaking at the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun who was represented by his deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele said the present would continue to partner various stakeholders towards the development of sports in the state.
Governor Abiodun commended the organisers for their continued efforts to sustain the marathon race which he described as good step ahead of the National Sports Festival.
The initiator of the race, chief Bukola Olopade said plans were on to ensure that the organisers of Abeokuta marathon race get a bronze label from the International Athletics Federation ahead of the 5th edition of the race.
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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.
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