An Ondo City marathon drew thousands of runners with big prize money. The second edition of the Prince Adewole Adebayo Christmas Marathon saw around five thousand participants from Nigeria and abroad complete a 15-kilometer route through the city. Winners from Plateau State dominated, with Gang James Boyi taking first place in the men's category and Blessing Solomon Shambor winning the women's race. The top finishers received cash prizes totaling millions of naira.
Event founder and former presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo framed the marathon as a project to build discipline and national character, comparing development to a long race. He highlighted plans to grow the event into an internationally recognized fixture, citing Ondo City's favorable terrain. Planning committee chairman and fellow former candidate Omoyele Sowore used the platform to criticize national leadership, suggesting widespread sporting events could foster unity. Another committee member, former minister Dr. Olu Agunloye, praised the initiative for blending health, youth empowerment, and community.
Event founder and former presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo framed the marathon as a project to build discipline and national character, comparing development to a long race. He highlighted plans to grow the event into an internationally recognized fixture, citing Ondo City's favorable terrain. Planning committee chairman and fellow former candidate Omoyele Sowore used the platform to criticize national leadership, suggesting widespread sporting events could foster unity. Another committee member, former minister Dr. Olu Agunloye, praised the initiative for blending health, youth empowerment, and community.
