500 set to participate in second edition of Tito marathon

The proprietor, Tito group of Companies, Chief Isaac Akikunmi on Wednesday said that about 500 athletes are been expected to participate in the second edition of the Tito Road Marathon.

Speaking at a press conference held in Makurdi, Chief Akinkumi said that the event is scheduled to hold on February 29th, 2020 and will draw participants from across the country and other parts of the world.

He added that registration for the event is free, explaining that participants can register through telephone, online and at ‘Tito gate in Makurdi.

Akikunmi said that the competition which has an attractive prize is aimed at engaging the youths to refrain from social vices like cultism.

Chief Akinkunmi assured security, stating that he is collaborating with all security agencies to ensure the safety of all the participants.

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He said, “Our determination is to continue using sport to enhance the youths to divert their attention from crime.

“In this second edition of the marathon race, we want local athletes to be more inclusive, hence, we have arranged the price award in two categories; local and participants outside the state.

“Because, in most cases, outsiders always clear the price award leaving locals to go home with nothing, that is the reason we have categorised the price.

Also speaking, the Technical Director, Benue State Sports Council Hyceintt Enejo lauded the initiative of the Akikunmi noting that he is the only one who has organized such an event and is sustaining it.

He urged the government, corporate organizations to support as a sponsor, intimating that the 20km Marathon will start off at the Tito Gate corporate headquarters through the Government House, Wadata, High Level, Wurukum, Gboko road and terminate at the Air Force Base.