Draft:OpoboMarathon
Opobo Marathon
[edit]Opobo Marathon[1][2][3] is an annual distance running event held every January in Opobo Kingdom, [4]Rivers State, Nigeria. Since its inception in 2019, it has become one of the most anticipated marathons in Southern Nigeria, attracting both local and national athletes. The event is organized by Connect Opobo Resources Ltd in Partnership with KOBIRI OPUBOAMA Foundation and serves as a showcase of Opobo’s unique blend of rich history, culture, and community spirit. Known for its challenging course and scenic coastal route, the Opobo Marathon also plays a pivotal role in promoting tourism, healthy living, and showcasing Opobo to the rest of the world.
| Opobo Marathon | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Date | First Week of January |
| Location | Opobo Kingdom, River’s State, Nigeria. |
| Event type | Road Race |
| Distance | Half Marathon, 10KM, 5KM |
| Primary sponsor | Platform Petroleum, NDDC, Chairborne, MCC |
| Established | 2018 |
| Organizer | Connect Opobo Resources Ltd |
| Official site | opobomarathon.com |
History
[edit]The Opobo Marathon[5] was founded by Connect Opobo in 2018 as part of an initiative to promote tourism and create economic opportunities for the Opobo/Nkoro LGA. The inaugural edition was a success, with participants from across Rivers State and beyond taking part. The race has since grown significantly each year, attracting elite athletes[6][7], amateur runners[8], and fitness enthusiasts from across Nigeria and abroad.
The marathon’s combination of scenic beauty and historical landmarks has made it a signature event in the Nigerian sporting calendar. It not only promotes physical fitness but also acts as a platform for the cultural heritage of the Opobo Kingdom[9], contributing to the development of local businesses and tourism.
Route and Landmarks
[edit]
The marathon route offers a unique opportunity for runners to experience the historical and cultural landmarks of Opobo Kingdom. Key landmarks along the route include: King Jaja Monument, Opobo Waterfront — The picturesque coastal view offers runners a refreshing visual escape during the race, Opobo Town Square — This bustling hub is filled with vibrant local activities and serves as one of the major gathering points for spectators and participants alike. The terrain includes flat stretches as well as slightly challenging elevations, designed to test both seasoned marathoners and casual.
Objectives
[edit]- Encouraging physical activity and wellness through mass participation.
- Bringing national and international visitors to experience the natural beauty and culture of Opobo.
- Creating opportunities for local businesses, vendors, and artisans.
- Showcasing traditional music, dance, and cultural heritage[10][11] through marathon-associated events and performances.
Sponsorship and Support
[edit]Opobo Marathon is supported by a combination of corporate sponsors, local businesses, and government agencies. These partnerships are crucial for the successful organization of the marathon, providing financial support, logistical aid, and media coverage. Over the years, the marathon has garnered attention from major national brands, who view it as an opportunity to align with a growing and impactful community event.
On the list of previous sponsors are; Rivers State Government, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency[12], Heritage Bank,[13] Platform Petroleum Limited [1]
Notable Feature / Endorsement
[edit]The Opobo Marathon has garnered notable endorsements and support from key figures, including the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara[14][15], the Amayanabo of Opobo, Kingdom, Atedo Peterside CON, a Nigerian entrepreneur, investment banker, and economist. He is the founder of Stanbic IBTC, Dr. Dakuku Peterside[16][17] Public Figure, Public Sector Turnaround Expert, Professor Iyalla Peterside (a neonatal physician based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs The Chairman Platform Petroleum Limited, NNPC Executive Vice President Upstream, Engr. Adokiye Tombomieye (Rtd) Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, Idah Peterside a former Nigerian international football, The Executive Secretary, Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly[18], Sody Peterside, Vice President FCMB (Rtd).
Future Goals
[edit]The long-term vision of Opobo Marathon[19] is to evolve into an internationally recognized World Athletics Label Road Race[20], drawing participants from across the globe. Plans include increasing international participation, expanding media coverage, and exploring partnerships with global running organizations like Global Running, The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races[21]
Notable Editions
[edit]2019
[edit]
2020
[edit]
2022
[edit]
2023
[edit]
See also
[edit]References / External Links
[edit]- ^ "Opobo marathon: 1,500 athletes to compete for $1,000 prize money". Supreme Magazine.
- ^ "Opobo Marathon Winners to Pocket $1,000". Thisday Newspaper. Port Harcourt.
- ^ "About". Opobo Marathon website.
- ^ "About Opobo". Opobo Foundation USA.
- ^ "Opobo Marathon Winners receive Prizes from Sponsor". The Guardian Newspaper.
- ^ a b "King Jaja backs Opobo Marathon slated for Jan. 3". National Accord Newspaper.
- ^ "King Jaja endorses Opobo Marathon". Peoples Gazette.
- ^ Waterman, Andy (September 2023). "Amateur Runners Should Take More Inspiration from the Training of Triathletes than Pro Runners". Medium.
- ^ Okuneye, Adepeju M (2019). "Reviewed Work: Opobo Kingdom: 150 Years After… Socio-Economic Dynamics for New Horizons Celestine Ogolo Review by: Adepeju M. Okuneye". Journal of the Historical Society of Nigeria. 28: 234-236 (3 pages). JSTOR 48618997.
- ^ Ajimotokan, Olawale, ed. (7 Aug 2024). "FG Unveils Plan to Establish King Jaja of Opobo Historical, Cultural Centre". Thisday Newspaper.
- ^ Jaja, Prof Jones. "FESTIVALS IN OPOBO KINGDOM (1870 - 1980): AN ASPECT OF A PEOPLES CULTURAL HERITAGE". Nigerian Journal.
- ^ "Nigerian Maritime Administration and Agency, NIMASA". NIMASA.
- ^ "NDIC pays Heritage Bank depositors with balances exceeding N5m". Punch Newspaper.
- ^ "PDP's Fubara wins Rivers governorship election". Premium Times.
- ^ "Supreme Court declare Sim Fubara as di validly elected govnor of Rivers state". BBC Pigdin. 24 January 2024.
- ^ Peterside, Dakuku. "Nigeria's Public Policy Gambles". Thisday Newspaper.
- ^ Dakuku, Peterside (2021). Strategic Turnaround: Story of a Government Agency. Safari Books Limited. ISBN 978-978-58008-9-0.
- ^ "BCDA website". The Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA).
- ^ "Taraba-born Hamadjam, Police Inspector Emerge Winners In Opobo Marathon". Leadership Newspaper.
- ^ "World Athletics - Sports governing body". WORLD ATHLETICS.
- ^ "AIMS".
- ^ "Azubuike, Bulus Sweep Stakes at Opobo Marathon". Thisday Newspaper. January 2024.