Ethiopians Dominate 2026 Okpekpe Road Race as Lama, Pitwe Clinch Elite Titles

Ethiopians Dominate 2026 Okpekpe Road Race as Lama, Pitwe Clinch Elite Titles

By BSN Sports 

Ethiopia’s Mamo Lama and Silnat Pitwe emerged champions in the elite men’s and women’s categories respectively at the 11th Okpekpe International 10km Road Race held over the weekend in Edo State, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Lama claimed victory in the men’s elite race after crossing the finish line in 29 minutes, 37 seconds to secure the top prize of $15,000. Fellow Ethiopian Aroge Getehn finished closely behind in 29:39, while Kenya’s Maxon Kyngetic placed third with a time of 29:58.

In the women’s elite category, Pitwe delivered an impressive performance to win in 34:18, edging compatriot Mahait Kasahiou by just one second. Kasahiou finished second in 34:19, while Kenya’s Friday Ndinda came third in 34:50.

Plateau State athletes dominated the Nigerian elite men’s category, sweeping the podium positions. Raymond Ilya Gyang secured first place with a time of 30:29, ahead of Boyi James, who clocked 30:40, while Sunday Rotshak finished third in 30:44.

In the Nigerian elite women’s category, Patient Daylop emerged victorious after posting a time of 36:42. Abuso Rose Thomas finished second in 36:51, while Vivian Nenyitwe claimed third place in 37:42.

Beyond the official prize money awarded by the organisers, philanthropist Peter Dunia announced additional cash rewards for the top Nigerian finishers. Winners in both the men’s and women’s Nigerian categories received N3 million for first place, N2 million for second place and N1 million for third place.

The Director-General of the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, who participated in the race alongside former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and other dignitaries in the VIP category, described the event as a reflection of his commitment to sports development and healthy living.

Speaking after the race, Shaibu commended the organisers for consistently delivering what he described as one of Nigeria’s most successful international sporting events.

According to him, the race has continued to provide significant economic benefits to communities across Etsako land and the Edo North Senatorial District by attracting athletes, officials, tourists and visitors from within and outside the country.

Shaibu also acknowledged the support of government and sponsors in sustaining the event over the years, praising their contributions to the growth of athletics in Nigeria.

He further highlighted the collaboration between the National Institute of Sports and the race organisers, noting that NIS personnel played key roles throughout the competition.

“Our medical team, researchers, media personnel and other staff members, including the South-South Zonal Coordinator of the Institute, were fully involved and provided support throughout the race,” he said.