250 athletes, 70 veterans to participate in CDS Half Marathon – DHQ

Approximately 70 veterans and no fewer than 250 participants, both male and female, will take part in the Chief of Defence Staff Armed Forces and Other Security Agencies Half Marathon in Abuja in 2023.

AVM Abidemi Marquis, the Director of Sports at Defence Headquarters, announced this during a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja.

Participants from the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies will fight for the prized automobile prize at the Marathon, according to Marquis.

According to Marquis, the CDS half marathon race has taken place three times in the last eight years: once, twice, and three times.

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He claimed that the COVID-19 and the growing military involvement in domestic security activities prevented the 4th edition from taking place until 2020.

In order to provide a forum for members of the armed forces, security services, and their staff to participate in competitive sports, the director announced that the 4th edition would now take place on December 9.

According to him, this would enhance their abilities, identify potential for the country, and foster communication among them to maintain the professional partnership.

Two events are planned for this year’s championship: a 5 km veteran’s road race and a 21.1 km male and female race.

Thus, competitions for both individuals and groups will be held simultaneously.

We anticipate finishing the road marking by Thursday, according our plans,” he stated.

According to the director, DHQ was aware of the disruptions that the athletic events would bring about for drivers using the Kubwa route.

In order to facilitate marking on Thursday and the event on Saturday, he asked drivers to cooperate.

In order to encourage sports-loving Abuja residents and those in the surrounding area to attend this year’s event, we are taking this chance to do so.

“Every strategy is fully set up to guarantee a flawless competition.

“We are ready to make sure that this marathon is successfully completed, and we have medical facilities for any unanticipated medical situations.

As a result, we are hoping that every runner is as prepared as we are to win this competition’s Star Prize.

“One brand-new automobile will be awarded as the Star Award to the best female and male marathoners, respectively.

“We have individual and group competitors who will receive a certificate of participation, in addition to cash prizes for placing second and third,” he continued.

Marquis forbade doping and other forms of cheating throughout the competition and exhorted competitors to compete aggressively but fairly.