Global interest peaks ahead of Okpekpe 10km race News

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Global interest peaks ahead of Okpekpe 10km race

By Daily Sports Nigeria on April 18, 2026

The build-up to the 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race has been marked by a surge in global interest, with organisers reporting a flood of participation requests from elite athletes across Africa and Europe ahead of the May 23, 2026, event, PUNCH Online reports.

The World Athletics Gold Label race, widely regarded as Nigeria’s premier road-running competition, has drawn particular attention from East African powerhouses Kenya and Ethiopia, as well as European competitors, underscoring its growing stature on the international calendar.

Race director of the organisation, Zack Amodu, explained on Saturday that the volume of applications has increased significantly, with athletes not only completing online registrations but also persistently seeking confirmation through various communication channels.

He highlighted the pressure placed on organisers by the influx of interest, noting the limitations imposed by global athletics regulations.

“The requests have been massive. After registering online, they bombard us with messages asking why they are not confirmed,” Amodu said.

“But we cannot confirm them because most do not have managers, and it is against World Athletics rules to deal directly with elite athletes without agents.”

Amodu further outlined the strict selection criteria required to maintain the race’s Gold Label status, stressing that only top-tier athletes can be prioritised.

He said the organisers’ approach is guided by compliance with international standards and the need to preserve the quality of competition.

“Our first consideration is to register as many gold-level running athletes as required to fulfil one of the conditions for organising a Gold label race. After this, we then give consideration to other World Athletics-certified elite runners,” he said.

Since becoming the first road race in West Africa to attain label status in 2015, the Okpekpe race has continued to build a reputation as one of Africa’s elite road events and remains one of only two Gold Label 10km races on the continent this year.

World Athletics technical delegate Norrie Williamson has also endorsed the event, describing its distinct features and high organisational standards. He emphasised the uniqueness of its course and execution, reinforcing its global appeal, saying it is “unique in its setting and organisation”.

Beyond elite competition, the race retains strong local significance. Former Edo State governor and current senator Adams Oshiomhole, who played a key role in developing the infrastructure that hosts the race, continues to champion the event.

As part of his preparations for this year’s edition, he shared details of his personal fitness routine, reflecting the demanding terrain of the course before remarking, “Getting ready for Okpekpe race in May 2026. It’s good to start practising… To cover 10km in a mainly hilly environment with valleys, and fresh air.”

Organisers have also extended the registration window for Nigerian athletes until early next month in a bid to encourage broader domestic participation, particularly from runners in Edo State and surrounding regions, many of whom view the event as both a competition and a cultural celebration.

Amodu reiterated the importance of local involvement and the experience the race offers.

“We want as many Nigerians as possible to come, not just to savour the beautiful scenery of Okpekpe and the hospitality of the people, but also to be part of a Gold Label race,” he added.

Source

Posted April 18, 2026