Share
Nigeria’s elite runners have stepped up their preparations for the maiden Abuja International Marathon scheduled for the Federal Capital Territory Dec 17.
The organisers of the event had promised an elite cast of runners, with some of the world’s top runners from Kenya and Ethiopia already confirmed for the race.
Leading the line of Nigerian runners hoping to make their mark at the Abuja race is duo Emmanuel Gyang and Deborah Pam, who have both won several accolades in recent years.
In a chat with the AIM media team, Gyan expressed delight at rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s best runners.
“Of course, I am delighted we are having an international race of this magnitude in Abuja, unlike other races that I have to embark on long journeys, this is very close to my base in Jos and it should have a positive effect on my performance” Gyang said.
“I am aware that there will be runners from across the world in Abuja, especially the Kenyans and Ethiopians. We would give them a run for their money, my target is to lower my PB to at least 2hrs.18mins.”
Gyang is no stranger to road races in Abuja, having won back-to-back editions of the Para Military Half Marathon races in 2017 and 2018.
The petite runner also recorded successes at the ECOWAS Half M and the Anti-Corruption races, among others.
On her part, Pam described the Abuja marathon as her biggest race for 2022, saying she was keen to finish the year on a high.
“Since I gave birth, I’ve been coming back to run gradually. Abuja International Marathon is one of my top targets for the year and I am confident I will do well,” Pam stated.
