Joy Abiye of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has again emerged winner of the 2023 Lagos Women’s Run held yesterday. Abiye, 33, from Ondo State, who won the 2021 edition of the 10km road race at a record time of 33:41:4, returned a time of 39: 13:78 to win this edition and received a cash prize of N1.5 million.
The event, which saw over 8,000 women registered, flagged-off at exactly 7.00 a.m. at the Tafawa Balewa Square and ended at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos Island.
Deborah Pam of Plateau State came second with a time of 39: 22:73, while Patience Dalyop, also of Plateau State, came third with a time of 40:02:08.
Pam received N500,000 cash price, while Dalyop got N300,000 for coming third.
At the veterans’ category, Helen Mamman emerged winner and received N300, 000 cash prize, while Paul Blessing, who came second got N200,000. Other participants were awarded consolation prizes by the sponsors and certificates of participation.
Abiye, who won the open run category, linked her victory to her continuous training, preparation, hard work and dedication in spite of the effects of the economic hardship on citizens.
She expressed happiness and lauded the organisers for a successful race and a platform for her to showcase her talent and strength, while promising to come out victorious in the next edition.
Also speaking at the end of the race, Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission, Sola Aiyepeku, said the Lagos women road race, from being a symbolic fitness call to women, has grown to become a competitive promotional platform that showcases the physical attributes and qualities of the female gender.
He encouraged and commended all the women who contributed in various ways to make the race a success, as well as those who have determined to be overcomers regardless of what life throws at them.
Also speaking, the coordinator of Lagos Women Run, Mrs. Temitayo Popoola, commended the winners of the two categories, as well as those that represented different organisations, sports groups, and individuals.
She said the yearly road race showcases the spirit of Lagos, while celebrating women’s empowerment, strength, self-discovery and determination, as well as value and celebrate every woman’s journey.
Popoola said the platform further empowers women to overcome challenges, conquer stereotypes, and break barriers. Popoola added that female athletes have shown the world that with dedication and determination they can achieve remarkable feats. (Guardian)