Three pilot siblings, Olwafunmilayo Marcus-Makinde, Mopelola Iyiola-Makinde and Oluwaseun Jenrola-Makinde; a renowned fashion diva, Funmi Ajla; and Nigeria’s long distance ace, Deborah Pam, are among top lists of participants for the 2022 Lagos Women Run.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the annual 10km Lagos Women Run now in its 7th edition holds on Nov. 12 in Lagos.
Tayo Popoola, the Co-ordinator of the competition, on Thursday said that no fewer than 25, 000 participants had registered for the 2022 edition.
Popoola said that the three Makinde Sisters who are pilots were the surprised entrants into the 2022 Lagos Women Run.
She said that the objective of the marathon is for the women from different status to have opportunities of networking among themselves.
“We are excited about the registration of the Makindes because the three sisters are pilots from the same parents, interestingly their father is also a pilot. They have all registered their intentions to run in the 2022 edition,” she said.
One of the Makinde Sisters, Oluwafunmilayo, a private pilot said that the race was her first shot at athletics.
“My sisters and I are looking forward to the date.
“Women play critical roles in our lives, environment and out work. Anything that will let the woman understand that they can do better is something I want to be part of.
“I am preparing well for the event because it is a run for love, understanding and not competition.
“This is going to be my first marathon and I am looking forward to it. I am also looking forward to meeting other women because as much as I want to pour out, I want to receive from them.
“I am in the aviation sector as a pilot and I am open to meeting other women in other professions to learn from them, hear their stories and share experiences,” she said.
Marcus-Makinde said she would have to sacrifice her off days at work to be part of the 2022 Lagos Women Run.
“The sacrifice I am making is to get a permission to attend the race, I will need to apply for an off duty.
“Aside the race which I will be participating in for the first time, I also love swimming and I practise swimming a lot,” she said.
Former President, Nigeria Fashion Designers Association, Funmi Ajila, said that she was encouraged to put in because of its health benefits.
“I am not going to run, but walk and meet other women to interact among ourselves.
“To be a good fashion designer, we need to be healthy both mentally and physically. Health is important and it comes first, only those who are healthy can become a celebrity.
“The Lagos Women Run is a wonderful idea and I am excited that I will be a part of it ,” she said.
The Niger State-born Pam said that she was glad to be gradually returning to top shape after taking some time off the track.
“Yes, I will be at the Lagos Women Run this year, this will be the second time after participating in the 2019 edition,” Pam stated.
Pam, who finished in the second position behind Kenya’s Cheptoeck Careen when she competed in 2019, said she was hopeful she could pick the top prize this term.
“Though it would not be a straightforward mission.
“My target is always to win every race I take part in, but I know it will not be easy at the Lagos Women Run.
“I know many other top athletes will be around, but I will give it my best shot and also use it to prepare for the National Sports Festival,” she said.
NAN reports that the winner of the Lagos Women Run will go with a cash prize of N1million while others will get other consolation prizes.
The race will start from the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos Island, and end at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (formerly Onikan Stadium), Lagos Island. (NAN)
