Ismael Sajo from Cross Rivers State has emerged winner of the maiden 2021 Festac 10km Half Marathon.
The race which took place on Saturday October 2nd in Festac Town, Lagos, saw Sajo breast the tape ahead hundreds of other athletes to emerge winner of the first edition.
Jigak Monday from Plateau State finished second while Emmanuel Gyang also from Plateau State came third.
Sajo after crossing the finish line
For emerging champion, Sajo got a cash prize of N500,000, a medal and a trophy.
First runner-up Monday also got a medal, a trophy and a cash prize of N300,000 and Gyang went home with N200,000, a medal and also a trophy.
The first three female athletes were awarded with medals while every participant also got a medal for their effort.
Speaking after being crowned champion, Sajo expressed his delight for beating other contestants.
“I will like to thank the organizers and officials, the Marathon went well and I feel good and I’m so happy.
“I left my state Calabar and went to Joe to train for two months for this marathon and I’m very happy it was not in vain.”
Speaking on The secret to his success, Sajo said:”The secret to my success is that when you train hard it’s easy to win.”
Athletes getting set for the commencement of the race
Among those present at the race are Chairman Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Engineer Valentine Buraimoh, his Chief of Staff, DPO Festac Town, CSP Balogun among others.
The Festac Half Marathon is an initiative and corporate material of Lexicon Communications Limited and is proposed to be an annual event open to both male and female.
Meanwhile, the next edition of the marathon series will hold January 2022 in Lekki.
By James Agberebi
