Scheduled to hold during the iconic Olojo Festival, the 5-kilometre race aims to discover and nurture raw athletic talent while promoting healthy living and preserving Yoruba heritage.

Conceived by Sooko Adeleke Odewade, a passionate advocate of youth empowerment, the race is part of a broader mission to use sports as a tool for transformation.

With the blessings of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the race is organised in partnership with the Alade’fa Athletic Family Initiative.

The Ife Road Race is open to youth, amateur runners, and professional athletes.

Participants will receive certificates of participation, with special cash prizes for category winners.

The race route has been carefully designed to pass through notable cultural landmarks in Ile-Ife, offering a scenic tour of the city’s rich heritage.

Beyond competition, the race will connect promising young athletes with seasoned professionals, coaches, and institutions.

Discussions are ongoing with universities, the state sports council, and veteran athletes—many of whom now thrive abroad—to provide post-race coaching and scholarship opportunities.

“We want to help these young ones become world-class athletes. If we can create role models from this effort, the ripple effect will inspire many others,” Mr Odewade added.

The event also aims to boost local economic activity by attracting visitors, vendors, and sponsors during the Olojo Festival period.