Heritage Half Marathon: Kenyans dominate as Police Officer shines

Police Officer Femi Olusanya and 11 year old Abigael Ogunbowale were impressive at the maiden edition of Ijebu-Ode Heritage Half Marathon even as Kenyans dominated the event.

Despite being a clean sweep for the Kenyans, Olusanya became the “First Ijebu Man” to complete the race while Abigael became “a star” for completing the 21-kilometer race with finishing point at the Dipo Dina Stadium in the ancient city.

Kenya’s Hosea Kiplimo finished the race in 1:02:36 while his counterpart, Rhonzas Kilimo finished second in 1:02:57. The third position went to another Kenyan, Timothy Ronoh, who raced to the finish line in 1:02:59.

The women’s race was also won by another Kenya, Sandra Chebet in a time of 1:10:42, with two Ethiopians taking the second and third position.

Gebaynesh Ayele came second while Beyenu Degefa was third with a time of 1:10:52 and 1:11:02 respectively

Managing Director of Rite Foods who powered the event Saleem Adegunwa said the look forward to making the competition better next year. He described  young Abigail’s stride at her age as a big plus and hopes she maintains it, even as the company rewarded her effort with a support of N250,000. Talents he further said abound in Nigeria and only needs to be harnessed.

read alsoIjebu Heritage Half Marathon Debuts July 17

“As the son of the soil, I will continue to promote activities that will bring honour to our people through events of this nature home,”

“By our composition in Nigeria, we are good in sports; we just need to harness it so we can move to greater heights. I was not surprised today to see a 55-year-old and 11-year-old finishing the race, we are naturally gifted and we need to improve on our talents” Adegunwa said.