Ethiopia's dominance in long-distance running was once again underscored at the 2026 Okpekpe International 10km Road Race, where Lema Alemu Mamo and Silnat Pitwe clinched the titles in the elite men's and women's categories. The race, held in Edo State, Nigeria, attracted a global field but showcased the unmatched prowess of Ethiopian athletes, continuing a trend seen in previous years.
Mamo completed the race in a blistering time of 27:38, while Pitwe secured her victory with a remarkable finish of 31:12. Local organizers expressed pride in hosting such a prestigious event, with Okpekpe Race Director, John Akintola, stating, “This race has grown to become a significant platform for showcasing talent, and the recurring success of Ethiopian athletes only elevates its status.”
As the Okpekpe International 10km Race continues to draw elite runners worldwide, it poses an opportunity for rising stars from other countries to challenge the status quo. With the 2026 World Athletics Championships on the horizon, the pressure mounts on competitors to step up and break Ethiopia's stranglehold on long-distance events.