Akwa Ibom State will host the 2026 La Reine Cycling Marathon. Both amateur and professional cyclists from all over Nigeria will take part.
Maobong Umoh, the person behind the competition, shared this news at a press conference on Tuesday in Uyo.
Ms Umoh mentioned that the event will take place from 26 October to 1 November. It aims to show the talents of Nigerian youths and find new talents.
She explained that the marathon will not just be about racing. It will also highlight the beauty of Akwa Ibom and its tourism potential.
"We are not just launching a marathon, but a movement that will redefine wellness and put Akwa Ibom on the global cycling map," she said.
Ms Umoh emphasized that this project shows how Nigerian women can lead world-class sports initiatives.
"Most importantly, the event is the first of its kind," she added.
The Cycling Federation of Nigeria (CFN) and the Union Cycliste Internationale have approved the race.
She stated that the event will follow strict international cycling rules.
The marathon will feature categories for professional elite men and women, amateurs, juniors, intermediates, veterans, and fun-riders.
Ms Umoh said cash prizes and wellness packages from La Reine Cycling Club will be announced in October.
The convener noted that organizers have planned routes and arranged ambulances, road marshals, Federal Road Safety Corps personnel, and medical teams.
"The measures are designed to ensure the safety of participants and other road users throughout the event," she said.
Ms Umoh is confident that the marathon will boost tourism. It will showcase Uyo's beauty and offer good terrain and infrastructure for cycling.
She praised the organizing committee members for their hard work and asked for media partnerships to promote the event.
Emmanuel Akpan, chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in Akwa Ibom, also spoke at the event. He praised the initiative.
He assured the organizers that SWAN members would give good publicity to the cycling marathon.
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