La Reine Cycling Marathon Rolls Into Akwa Ibom
By EFFANGA OSOK
AKWA Ibom State will host the 2026 La Reine Cycling Marathon from 26 October to 1st November, with amateur and professional cyclists expected from across Nigeria.
Competition convener, Maobong Umoh, announced the event at a news conference in Uyo. She said the marathon would provide a platform to discover emerging cycling talents while showcasing the potential of Nigerian youths.
Beyond competition, the organisers plan to use the event to promote Akwa Ibom’s tourism attractions. Uyo and other locations along the race routes are expected to feature prominently as cyclists compete across the state.
Umoh described the marathon as more than a sporting event. According to her, it is designed to promote wellness and position Akwa Ibom as a destination for cycling and sports tourism.
The competition has also received approval from the Cycling Federation of Nigeria and the Union Cycliste Internationale. Consequently, organisers said the races would follow international cycling regulations.
Several categories will feature in the marathon. They include professional elite men and women, amateurs, juniors, intermediates, veterans and fun riders.
Meanwhile, participants can expect cash prizes and wellness packages from La Reine Cycling Club. The organisers said details of the rewards would be announced in October.
Safety has also received attention ahead of the event. Organisers have mapped out the race routes and arranged ambulances, medical teams, road marshals and Federal Road Safety Corps personnel.
These measures, Umoh explained, are intended to protect cyclists and other road users throughout the competition.
She also highlighted the role of women in driving major sporting initiatives, describing the marathon as an important demonstration of what Nigerian women can achieve in sports development.
With preparations underway, the organisers are seeking wider media support to build public awareness and attract spectators.
Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom Chapter, Emmanuel Akpan, pledged the support of sports journalists in promoting the event.
