Athletes representing Plateau State showcased their prowess and determination in the inaugural Taraba Marathon, emerging victorious in both the male and female categories. Despite facing adverse weather conditions, including an early morning downpour, the Plateau athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience throughout the race.
The marathon, held in Jalingo, the capital city of Taraba State, commenced at the flyover bridge on Roadblock and traversed through various routes, including Barde Way and Bye Pass, before culminating at the Jolly Nyame Stadium. The 21-kilometer race attracted athletes from different parts of the country and served as a preparatory event for upcoming international competitions, such as the World Olympics, as stated by the Commissioner of Sports, Joseph Joshua.
Credit was given to the state governor, Agbu Kefas, for his unwavering commitment to sports development in Taraba State. Plans were revealed to renovate the Jolly Nyame Stadium, aiming to further enhance local sports activities in the region. Additionally, it was announced that the Taraba Marathon would become an annual event, attracting athletes from various regions across Nigeria.
In the men’s category, Newforth Mathias from Plateau State clinched victory with an impressive time of 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 41 seconds. Similarly, Charity Ogufure, also from Plateau State, emerged as the winner in the women’s category, completing the race in 1 hour, 12 minutes, and 22 seconds. Both athletes attributed their success to rigorous training and dedication, expressing gratitude to the Taraba State government for organizing the event and allowing athletes from other states to participate.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the Taraba Marathon served as a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and determination. While some competitors cited the heavy rain as a hindrance to their performance, the overall spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie prevailed throughout the event. The success of the Plateau athletes underscored the region’s commitment to sports excellence and served as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across Nigeria.