Nigeria’s Francis James emerged as the winner of the men’s category in the fourth edition of the 10km Abeokuta race, on Saturday.
The 18 year-old ended the dominance of East African dominance, as Kenyan athletes had claimed the top three positions in the 2023 edition of the marathon.
James crossed the finish line with a time of 30 minutes and 11 seconds to secure the win, closely followed by Gyang Raymond, who finished in second place at 30 minutes and 14 seconds.
Another Plateau State athlete, Coupang David Boyi, secured third place with a time of 30 minutes and 54 seconds, while Ismael Sodijo and Adamu Shehu finished fourth and fifth at 31 minutes 11 seconds, respectively.
In the women’s category, Blessing Shambaz claimed victory with a personal best time of 35 minutes and 58 seconds, while Daylop Patience finished second, clocking in at 36 minutes and 51 seconds.
