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Ethiopians Dominate 2026 Okpekpe Road Race as Lama and Pitwe Win Elite Titles

Posted : 01 June 2026

Ethiopian long-distance runners completely dominated the 11th edition of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race over the weekend. Lema Alemu Mamo and Silnat Pitwe conquered the challenging, hilly terrain in Edo State to claim the men’s and women’s elite titles respectively. The prestigious World Athletics Gold Label event drew top-tier athletes from across East Africa and Nigeria to the hilltop community.

In the men's elite division, Mamo cross the finish line in a time of 29 minutes and 37 seconds. His stellar performance earned him the coveted top prize of $15,000. Fellow countryman Arage Getehn followed closely behind to claim second place in 29:39; Kenya's Maxon Kipngetich completed the podium by securing third position in 29:58.

The elite women's category delivered an equally thrilling finish on the tarred roads. Pitwe claimed the gold medal with a time of 34:18, edging out her compatriot Mahait Kasahwu by a single second. Kasahwu secured second place in 34:19, while Kenya's Fridah Ndinda finished third after crossing the line in 34:50.

Plateau State runners completely swept the podium in the domestic category. Defending champion Raymond Iliya Gyang retained his title by finishing in 30:29; Boyi James and Sunday Rotshak placed second and third respectively. In the Nigerian women's class, Patience Dalyop won in 36:42, beating Abuso Rose Thomas and Vivian Nenyitwe.

The local competitors received a massive financial boost during the medal presentation. Philanthropist Peter Dunia announced a significant increase in the domestic prize funds; the top three Nigerian finishers received N3 million, N2 million, and N1 million respectively. This generous gesture added extra excitement to an already historic day of athletics.

National Institute for Sports Director General Philip Shaibu completed the VIP race alongside Senator Adams Oshiomhole. Shaibu praised the organizers for maintaining such high standards, noting that the global streaming of the event brought massive tourism and economic benefits to the Edo North Senatorial District.

 

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