Registration Commences for 2023 Godfrey Okoye University Enugu Marathon
By Godwin Umeh
Registration for the highly anticipated 2023 Godfrey Okoye University Enugu Marathon is now officially underway, marking the commencement of a sporting event that promises to be a highlight of the year. The marathon registration process is being conducted at the Thinkers Corner campus of the prestigious university, where athletes and participants can sign up for this exciting event.
The Chairperson of the Gouni Marathon Organising Committee, Professor Modesta Egiyi, inaugurated the registration process in a colorful ceremony. Professor Egiyi made it clear that this year’s marathon is exclusively open to the university’s staff and students, as well as those affiliated with the university’s group of institutions. Notably, registration for this event is entirely free of charge, a generous gesture to encourage maximum participation.
The marathon itself is scheduled to take place on the 14th of November 2023, offering an exciting and challenging course for participants. The race will commence at the entrance gate of Omnium Sanctorum Chaplaincy, traverse the Emene old road, and culminate at the main campus of Godfrey Okoye University, situated at Ugwuomu Nike, Enugu State.
To ensure the utmost safety and security of all participants, Professor Egiyi emphasized that thorough arrangements are being made. This includes the presence of security personnel and medical support along the route.
The decision to restrict this year’s marathon to university students and staff is rooted in the desire to discover and nurture budding athletic talents, particularly in the field of long-distance running. Professor Egiyi praised the Vice Chancellor of the University for providing opportunities for Nigerian youth to hone their skills and excel in their chosen sports.
Highlighting the diversity and inclusivity of the university, Professor Egiyi stated, “The institutions are open to people of all races, irrespective of ethnicity or religious beliefs.” Last year’s marathon showcased winners from different Nigerian states, with male and female star prize winners hailing from Plateau and Delta States.
The 2023 Gouni Marathon is part of the festivities organized for the 11th convocation of the University, which will feature several events. These include an Opening Holy Mass scheduled for the 12th of November 2023, an inaugural lecture on the 15th of November, Students Day, and a Parents Forum on the 16th of November.
The highlight of the convocation activities will be the 11th convocation lecture, taking place on the 17th of November, and the award of degrees, honorary degrees, and prizes scheduled for the 18th of November. The celebration will conclude with a Thanksgiving Holy Mass on Sunday, the 19th of November.
For the various convocation events, participants must be certified as medically fit. The award of degrees, the Gouni Marathon, and the World News Conference will occur at the main campus, while the Holy Masses, inaugural and convocation lectures, and the inauguration of new university professors will be hosted at the Thinkers Corner campus of Godfrey Okoye University Enugu.
Godfrey Okoye University, established in 2009, boasts five faculties, a school of postgraduate studies, a College of Medicine, a College of Practical Skills, a European Business Park, and a DNA Learning Centre. With its commitment to academic excellence and inclusive sporting events like the Gouni Marathon, the university continues to make a significant impact on education and sports in Nigeria.
