Success Ayagwa, a 400 level student at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) yesterday ran 64 kilometers to commemorate the nation’s 64th Independence anniversary.
A long distance runner, Success started his five hours run at 5am on Tuesday and ended at 10 am within the premises of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Kaduna.
Speaking with newsmen after the run, he said he ran 63 kilometers last year to mark the nation’s 63rd anniversary.
Ayagwa said he was motivated to embark on the run for the love he has for his country and athletics.
“I wanted to demonstrate the love I have for my country Nigeria and my talent in long distance running to Nigerians that is why I came up with the idea of running 64 kilometers to commemorate the nation’s Independence Day.
“It was really tough running for five hours, but I knew with perseverance, I will be able to achieve it and I am happy I did it with the support of the commandant, my coach, staff and students of the institute.”
Sergeant Wayo Emmanuel, Chief Instructor, Office of the Director of Sports, AFIT who coached Success said he discovered his talent two years ago.
“After watching him for some time, I discovered he was good and I was asked to monitor him for training. Luckily, the commandant sponsored us to take part in the Okpekpe road race last year where Success emerged 7th among the runners,” he said.
He noted that being a long distance runner and an instructor, he will continue to encourage Success to go for what he believes in saying, “Sports is a passion, and I have seen that passion in Success. With determination I believe he can achieve his desired goal especially since he is still within the age range for runners.”
Director of Public Relations, AFIT, Wing Commander Bassey Okon who spoke on behalf of the Commandant of the institute, Air Vice Marshal Saleh Rabe, while commending the student for his resilience, urged Nigerians to work together with the government to achieve the desired progress.
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