Commissioner for Women, Children and Social Affairs, Barr .Olubukola Olaboopo has disclosed that the forthcoming Osun 10 kilometres women Marathon race will bring osun sports to limelight globally.
Barrister Olubukola Olaboopo stated this during a press conference powered, on behalf of State Government, by the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Affairs in conjunction with Bran Dove International held in Oshogbo.
The Commissioner pointed out that the marathon race is targeted at show casing Osun women who are into sport, as well as hunt for talents, stressing that there are women that are naturally blessed in the skills of athletics based in Osun who will be unveiled so that they enjoy Government support.
She explained that the race is an international event which would attract athletics from all over the world.
She noted that the race would be registered with the International Association of Athletic Federation (IAAF) and that Osun state will be
included in their calendar which will enable people all over the world to check the state of Osun on IAAF calendar.
Olubukola stressed that the race has great benefits as it would boost the economy, promote the cultural heritage and expose the people to the various tourist sites located across the state of Osun.
Commissioner however emphasized that the state Government had taken a giant stride by making adequate provisions for the safety of life of both the local and international participant.
Speaking earlier, the Project Coordinator Osun Women Run Mr. Ibukunoluwa Abimbola, reiterated that the official website will be
made available to a minimum of Five Thousand and maximum of Ten Thousand participants all over the world and that they will be screened for security purpose, stressing that the event is going to be one of the biggest race in the world.
According to Ibukunoluwa his organization is collaborating with different airline to ensure rebate and free tickets to elite athletics which will enable them to fly into country at a low cost.
He noted that SUBEB junction in Osogbo will be the take off point for the race and it will terminate at Osogbo City Stadium.
He however sought for partnership from various corporate bodies and private organizations.
In his remarks, Michael Hughes, member of International Association of Athletic Federation who arrived Osun from South Africa disclosed that the purpose of his coming is to measure the route for the race, stating that the state is peaceful and a good location for the race.
Bolarinwa Adereti
Ministry of Women, Children & Social Affairs