By Praise Chinecherem
Nyango Gyang of Plateau State has defeated other marathoners to emerge winner of the maiden edition of the Anambra State Marathon.
Gyang won the prize money of N1 million after running 40 kilometer marathon, which began at the Ogbunike Toll gate, through Enugu -Onitsha expressway, and ended in Awka, in a record 1 hour 26 minutes.
The event, organized by Thanos Charity Foundation, in partnership with Federal Ministry of Sports and the state government, began at the Ogbunike Toll gate, through Enugu -Onitsha expressway, and ended in Emmaus House, Awka.
Ismael Sadjoh came second to win the cash prize of N300,000 while Selengwe Constant, won the second runner-up prize money of N300,000.
Speaking to newsmen after the event, the marathon winner, Gyang disclosed that he got information about the competition through his coach, who encouraged him to register and participate.
“I want to commend the organisers for making it open for all Nigerians irrespective of tribe and religion.
“It was an experience that I was given to continue to develop my skills as an athlete. I am so delighted and I promise to do better in future competitions.
“I believe government and other individuals can also emulate this effort and begin to do more in the area of creating the platform for young athletes to develop their talents while getting some reward,” he said.
Reacting, Ifeanyi Ugochukwu, President of Thanos Charity Foundation, organizers of the event, said the exercise was targeted at identifying sports talents in the state, and give them platform to showcase their talents to the world.
He noted that the Foundation was determined to improve sporting activities in Anambra state, adding that it was partnering the Ministries of Sports; Commerce and Wealth Creation as well as that of Health.
“We are looking to beat the records of Lagos Marathon of organizing the biggest Marathon event in the country that will attract athletes from all over the place.
“Through this initiative, we want to discover budding talents in sports and hand them over to the state to represent the state in future competitions.
“The success of the marathon has proven that Anambra State is safe,” he stated.
