The Airtel Ijebu Heritage Half Marathon was concluded successfully on Saturday, 17th of July, 2021 as Kenyans dominated each category of the marathon.
The 21km race was won by Hosea Kiplimo who finished the race in 1:02:36 while his counterpart, Rhonzas Kilimo finished second in 1:02:57.
The third position went to another Kenyan, Timothy Ronoh, who raced to the finish line in 1:02:59.
The women’s race was also won by another Kenya, Sandra Chebet in a time at 1:10:42, with two Ethiopians taking the second and third positions respectively. Gebaynesh Ayele came second and Beyenu Degefa was third with a time of 1:10:52 and 1:11:02.
The first Ijebu man to finish the race was Femi Olusanya, a police officer from Ijebu Ode and promised to do better in the next edition.
Airtel Ijebu Heritage Half birthed the youngest marathoner ever, 11-year-old Abigael Ogunbowale, who completed the 21km of the race.
Speaking after the marathon, MD/CEO of Nilayo Sports Management Company, Hon. Bukola Olopade said he’s happy with the organization of the marathon and thanks to the Governor of Ogun State, Gov. Dapo Abiodun, the commissioner of sports, Hon. Hon. (Dr.) Oluwadare Kehinde, the Ijebu Heritage Group, and all sponsors.
He said, “The Airtel Ijebu Heritage Half Marathon, is arguably the best-organized road race Nilayo has ever had”
The next edition of the Airtel Ijebu Heritage Half marathon is scheduled for July 3rd, 2022.
