ZARIA ATHLETICS GRAND PRIX KICKS OFF ..... As Athletes Gather In Preparation oF International Sporting Events

"The grand Prix is meant to prepare Nigeria athlete for the All African games, Olympics and other major events. We are partners in progress with the Ministry of Sports for the development of sports in Nigeria." Adeleye.

The Zaria Athletics Grand Prix kicked off on Tuesday, 14 March, 2023 amidst pomp and pageantry with athletes from across the country including neighbouring countries.

At the opening ceremony, the Meet Directors of the Zaria Athletics Grand Prix, Mr Sunday Adeleye asked the technical officials at the two day event to put up a garment of professionalism even as he encouraged them to bring into play, equity and fairness as they work.

In his words; "I know some of you are part of the teams or athletes in these Grand Prix. For now, I will say you have no business with the athletes but you are required to bring in equity and fairness into your work."

He added that athletes have been training without competitions but these Grand Prix will give them the opportunity to test their fitness level.

"The grand Prix," according to Adeleye, "is meant to prepare Nigeria athlete for the All African games, Olympics and other major events. We are partners in progress with the Ministry of Sports for the development of sports in Nigeria."

On the number of participating athletes and countries, he disclosed that over 700 hundred athletes were invited but only about 500 athletes came because of the cashless policy. He further revealed that athletes from Nigerian universities and three countries are participating in the Grand Prix.

Mr Sunday Adeleye appreciated Hon Ibrahim Gasau, Hon Shehu Usman ABG and the Ahmadu Bello University for their support.

He also encouraged schools and parents to bring their wards to the two day event taking place at the Ahmadu Bello University Sports Complex.

"We have invitation relays for Secondary schools and we believe it will help encourage the upcoming athletes."

"The events in the Grand Prix are 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 3000m, 5000m, Shotput, Tripple Jump, 4x100 and 4x400 all for men and women."

Mr. Adeleye further disclosed that, winners at the event will go home with monetary cash rewards.

"First position will get #100,000, second place gets #75,000 while the third place winner will go home with #50,000 naira," he said.