About 150 elite athletes are expected to take part during the maiden edition of Abuja International Marathon (AIM) scheduled for Saturday April 29, 2023.
Disclosing this on Friday during a pre-marathon press conference in Abuja, tournament director Olukayode Thomas said 32 out of them are coming from various countries.
Seven of them drawn mainly from Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda and Bahrain were in attendance at the press conference held inside Exhibition Pavilion, an arts and cultural centre situated around Central business district in the nation’s capital.
The tournament director then told teaming sporting media that up to $110, 000 star prize money are up for grabs at the end of the 42km race which kicks off from the popular Abuja City Gate.
The money is for both male and female winners.
“Marathon like the name implies gradually brings a lot – from social to economic advantage to the residents and business owners in any city, aside the tourism advantages.
“In London and other Cties of the world where Marathon takes place, for instance, up to $1 billion are plugged into the economy annually,” he said.
Thomas who is also media veteran said the main elite Marathon will kick-start start at 6am with the identified routes set for lockdown, as from 10pm on Friday till 2pm on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Abuja city gate, down to the final point àt Eagle square is wearing a new look as commercial activities is at it peak.
Foreigners who are in Abuja for the first time are exploring the opportunity to visit some important sites within the Federal Capital Territory.
FCT Director of Sports, Mr. Luka Istifanus, was among the dignitaries at the press conference.
