BY SAB OSUJI

The inaugural Rivers International Marathon came to a thrilling end at the weekend with Plateau State marathoners claiming all the top prizes in the men's category, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Grang Boyi Nyango of Plateau State claimed the top prize in the men's marathon with a time of 2:28:29 just as Iliya Pam Nwanta, also from Plateau State, finishing in second place with a time of 2:39:09 while Istifanus Peter Mahan, also from Plateau State, crossed the line in third place (2:41:42).

But Kenya, the East African country reputed for producing Marathon runners took center stage in the women's category, with Arusei Peninah claiming the top prize after breezing tape with a time of 2:48:23. 

Blessing Shambor Solomon (2:57:38) came second with Charity Agofure completing the podium places with a time of 3:02:58.

The winners in the male and female categories took home the sum of $10,000.00 (ten thousand UD Dollars) apiece.

The Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialaye Fubara who attended the race whose finale was at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt also announced a cash donation of one million naira (N1m) to the contestants who finished between the second and 20th positions, respectively, in the male and female category.

Speaking after the conclusion of the event, Rivers State Sports Commissioner, Barr. Christopher Green expressed elation at the smooth manner in which the event was conducted.

"First and foremost, I want to thank the Almighty God for the successful completion of this first ever Rivers International Marathon. It wasn't without its hitches but overall, we have to give it a pass mark.

"Like our Sports loving Governor has stated, the next edition next year will be one of the biggest and the best marathons the country has ever seen.

"I also want top use this opportunity to thank His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State for the great support he showed which ensured that this event ended successfully.

"In his magnanimity, he donated the sum of five million naira each to winners of races in both categories and also doled out one million naira each to those who finished in the second to 20th position range. That is the act of a generous lover of sports which will serve as a huge motivation to the athletes," Barrister Green concluded.