South Sudanese youth to race forward
At the initiating ceremony, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Cirino Hiteng Ofuho, said that the first marathon competition is a kick up of athletics in the new nation.
South Sudan is rich in athletic talents,” Hiteng assured United Agency, which is organising the event. He said the purpose of the marathon is to develop local talent and identify good runners who will represent South Sudan in international marathons.
The initiating ceremony of South Sudan’s first marathon competition.
The marathon will be divided into three sections: 21 kilometres for long distance runners, 10 kilometres for middle distance runners and five kilometres for those thought capable. I will register to run some kilometres‚” Hiteng said.
South Sudan is working to increase sports activities by 2014. The government has registered with FIFA, Africa Football Federation and all international sports bodies‚” said Hiteng, adding that sports would be an integral part of the celebration of the independence first anniversary.
A basketball competition will follow on July 8, and a football match on July 10.
Private sponsorship for the marathon will come from Tong Group Africa, Canaan and The Citizen newspaper. The private sector has a big role to play in all developmental aspects of the government,” said the undersecretary of Culture, Youth and Sports, Peter Baptist. He also called upon media to sensitise the public about the marathon.
Meanwhile, event coordinators seek additional investment. We are welcoming companies who have an interest in sponsoring the marathon‚” said Mungana Annie from United Agency. Annie said the marathon has a budget of $30,000 and has opened mobilisation committees to solicit funds.
Malaak Philip of Tong Group Africa -- one of the marathon’s sponsors -- said his company will participate in building sport activities and developing talents among citizens of South Sudan. I, personally, am an athlete,” said Philip. I was sponsored in my school because I am a top runner.” Malaak added that Tong Group Africa members would register and participate as well.
We sponsored the programme because we need to be involved in youth developmental programmes across South Sudan,” said Bereket Negasi, finance officer of Canaan Water Company, another marathon sponsor. Youth play a role.”
