Abuja: Ace teenage athlete, Ogurinde Oladele, emerged the winner of the 2025 edition of the Abuja Bikers Race.
The teenage cyclist finished first at the fourth edition of the tournament held in Kubwa over the weekend.
In an electrifying display of speed and skill, Oladele, who also won the 2024 edition of the race, crossed the finish line before other bikers, solidifying his position as a fast-rising star in cycling.
The thrilling competition brought together cycling enthusiasts from across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in large numbers to support their contestants.
Oladele, who granted an interview with reporters on the sidelines, said his victory was a result of proper preparation and hard work.
He said his commitment to the sport is fueled by an ambition to participate in the Olympics and other global cycling championships shortly.
“I feel great about this win, and it is all about hard work, determination and focusing on your goals.
“I am not just doing this for now, I’m looking forward to representing Nigeria at the Olympics, world championships, and other major international races. I want to gain more power and prepare well for what’s ahead,” he said
Also speaking, Monalisa Joseph, the first female cyclist to cross the finish line, said: “I’m happy because I just trained on Thursday, and that was all. But I stayed determined.”
Peter Japhet, the official tournament coach, commended the performance of all participants, adding that the youngsters did far more than he had expected.
“With little training, they showed strength and focus. Parents need to support their children by encouraging regular physical activity. Fitness should go beyond this event,” he said.
Izin Adaghe, a co-organiser of the annual event, highlighted
the growth of the race over the years.
“This is the fourth edition, and it keeps getting better; the children gave us a real competition,” she said.
Also, Marian Oluwapidan, a Core organiser of the bikers’ race, emphasised the broader vision behind the tournament.
According to her, the tournament is part of a larger movement to promote biking culture in Nigeria.
She, therefore, called on the government at all levels to provide more support, including better safety measures and dedicated days for cycling.
“Every time we watch the Olympics, we see countries like France, Italy, and Germany. We don’t see Nigerians, and that has to change. We have the energy, the talent, and the passion, so cycling must become a serious sport in Nigeria.
“We need roads where kids can train without fear of traffic. And it’s not just about the helmets and elbow pads; it’s about creating a culture where cycling is respected,” she said.