Better fortunes for Olympic Day Runners

Backed by Frutta Juices and Services, Nigeria Sport For All Nigeria hopes to give Nigerians not only some more fun, than in previous editions, but would endeavour to ensure that, Nigerians get more active and fit. Speaking with nigeriasports.com in Lagos, President of the Association, Barrister (Mrs) Ize Matabese disclosed that, this year's edition of the Olympic Day Run, "would be unique."

"The Olympic Day Run is one of the most important events on our annual calender and takes place all over the world. As you are aware, the Run is being organised by the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) in collaboration with Sport For All Nigeria;" she declared before going on to add:

"The Olympic Day Run is significant for two reasons: First, it is a unique international event established by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), to commemorate its formation by the Paris Congress on June 23, 1894.

"Second, the event typifies the IOC's idea of guaranteeing access by people all over the world, irrespective of race, colour, gender, age, religious or sociual background to participate regularly in mass people-oriented sports and leisure physical activities for recreation, fitness and healthy living purposes,"Matabese reeled out.

The 2006 Run is expected to hold in Nigeria on Saturday July 1; a deviation from the hitherto tradition of having it on Sundays. "We are changing the usual practice of having it on a Sunday, which we think is a Sabbath Day for worship and rest," she explained.

About 25 States of the Federation have already signified their intentions to be part of this year's Run and "we are hoping and expecting more to come and register before then," the President prayed.