Ghanaian athletes shine at Owan marathon race

Athletes from Ghana were emphatic winners at the fifth edition of the annual 10-kilometre Owan Marathon was held on Saturday in Sabongida-Ora, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

The race witnessed strong performances from Ghanaian athletes in both the male and female categories but Nigeria’s Michael Adetiba, 26, from Kwara, emerged winner of the men’s category in a record time of 50:13. Adetiba had earlier won the 2025 21-kilometre Abuja Marathon in September.

Freepong Kwabena of Ghana finished second with a time of 50:37, while Yusuf Baaije from Plateau State came third in 51:46.

In the female category, Ghana’s Joyce Ayaaba, 25, won the race in a record time of 57:44, while her compatriot, Christiana Mumuni, finished third in 58:54. Charity Agofure from Delta State placed second.

Adetiba attributed his victory to God and expressed optimism about improving his performance in future competitions.

Ayaaba said she only hoped for a good outing after her coach informed her about the marathon and prepared her for the event.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, commended the organisers for projecting Owan to the global stage and pledged continued support for the annual race.

He described the marathon as a commendable initiative that showcased the community to the world and assured that greater support would be provided in subsequent editions.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Desmond Enabulele, said sports remained one of the fastest means of youth empowerment.

Represented by Frank Ilaboya, Enabulele expressed appreciation for the steady growth of the Owan Marathon and pledged the continued support of the state government.

Organiser of the race, Chris Ojo announced plans to establish a marathon clinic to train future long-distance runners.

Ojo also called for collaboration with well-meaning sons and daughters of the state, adding that from the next edition, the organisation of the race would be handed over fully to professionals.

“The Olympics is just a little more than two years away, and with commitment, we can groom athletes who will represent Nigeria,” he said.
NAN