By Rita Daniel.
The organisers of the second annual Auto Race Marathon have announced its date and programme of activities ahead of the race expected to attract runners from across Nigeria.
At a press conference held on Monday, 29th June 2026, the Chief Convener, Engr. Longlife Eko and the Co-Convener, Engr. Sani Usen, alongside members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and representatives of the Idjere Kingdom, unveiled details of the event.
In his address, Engr. Longlife Eko said the marathon—held in collaboration with His Royal Majesty, King Obukowho Arthur Ovie Whiskey, JP, PhD, Udureh 1, Ovie of Great Idjere Kingdom —is designed to promote peaceful community building, transformation and unity. He noted that the race will serve as an annual platform for youth discipline, fitness development, talent discovery, and showcasing Idjere culture to the world.
He stated that this year’s event is a 21.09797 km course (13.1 miles), professionally organised by Fierce Event Spot Management and Marketing*l, with plans for registration, security, timing, medical support, and media coverage at global standard.
Race Format and Categories
LOC Chairman Mr. Peter Usen announced that the second edition is open to male categories only. Prize money includes:
- 1st Prize: ₦500,000
- 2nd Prize: ₦300,000
- 3rd Prize: ₦200,000
- 4th to 10th: Consolation prizes and medals
He also assured that the LOC is committed to transparency, inclusiveness, and excellence.
Flag-Off, Route and Registration
Technical Director/Project Consultant Mr. Clinton Gbaragada said the marathon will start at 7:00am prompt from the Express Junction close to the Army Checkpoint, with the finish point at D’Light Dynasty in Idjere town**.
He explained that the organisers are expecting 115 athletes and that registration will open on 1st August 2026, with both online and physical registration available in Idjere. Registration closes on 30th October 2026.
Medical Support, Security and Entertainment
The organisers said hydration stations will be available at every kilometer, with full security coverage throughout the race. Traditional dancers and an Urhobo cultural dance and folklore group will also entertain at intervals for cultural celebration.
They added that free medical check-up will be provided for all present and that participating athletes must present a medical fitness certificate from a registered hospital dated three months before the race start date. Support will include ambulances, medical personnel, cooling sponges, first aid, and monitoring vehicles for runners.
Fundraising and School Events
It was also announced that secondary schools will hold one-kilometer fundraising and essay competitions** as part of activities for the build-up to race day.
Sponsors Pledge Support
Speaking for sponsors and partners, Mr. Usman Sani** said the event budget will be professionally reviewed and that logistics such as ambulance services, hydration water, medical support, cultural groups, and media coverage will be provided to ensure a hitch-free event.
Countdown to the Main Day
Concluding, Co-Convener . Mrs. Chinyere Longlife emphasised that the vision is driven by passion for healthy living** and empowering the young and old through sports noting that the Auto Race Marathon is intended to bring progress and development** to the Idjere community.
The marathon is scheduled for Saturday, 7th November 2026, and organisers have urged sons and daughters of Idjere—home and abroad—to support through participation and sponsorship, insisting that the biggest victory will be the peace and unity the race brings to the kingdom.
The press conference ended with a light refreshment .
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