By Victor Okoye
The 4th Chaingang MTB Festival, tagged Be Ya Gnu Abuja Pe (Let’s Go To The Abuja Mountains) delivered a day of gritty endurance and high excitement across the rugged Mpape ridgelines.
A statement by Chidera Obijiofor, a member of the Chaingang MTB Festival Organising Committee on Thursday, said the event showcased how fast mountain biking and trail sport culture were growing in the Federal Capital Territory.
“This year’s edition exceeded our expectations. The turnout, the energy from the athletes, and the support from the Mpape community were outstanding,” Obijiofor said.
She said the festival had grown into one of Nigeria’s most anticipated off-road sporting events, drawing both amateurs and elites who came to test their limits.
“Our goal is to build a mountain sports culture that is safe, inclusive, and world-class. We are proud of what the athletes achieved today,” she added.
The annual festival brought together riders, runners, and hikers who battled Mpape’s sharp ridges, stony trails, and dust-heavy climbs under punishing heat.
Fanam Rumum won the men’s 42 km MTB race in 1:43:00, dethroning the defending champion. Joel Berry Monday finished second in 1:46:00, while Emmanuel Ani placed third in 1:50:00.
The course, a brutal mix of rocky shelves, singletracks and plunging descents, rewarded bold lines and strong legs, separating top riders from the field.
In the women’s MTB race, Mary Sunday claimed first position in 2:04:39. She was followed closely by Sylvia Odom in 2:05:10 and Suzzie Angmun in 2:05:50.
The 20 km trail run also pushed competitors to their limits. The route was extended by seven kilometres from 2024, while temperatures rose above 32°C.
Plateau’s Julius Kiv won the men’s trail run ahead of Ernest Oberechukwu and Bomen Clement, both of whom staged strong finishes.
In the women’s category, Barbara Kirsch emerged champion, with returning podium runner Mercy Markus taking second place and Kudyo Natuwa third.
The finish area at Mpape Crushed Rocks was lively with music, vendors, and cheering spectators as athletes recovered, shared stories, and celebrated their effort.
Obijiofor noted that safety remained top priority, with hydration points every 2 km, medical teams on standby and route marshals guiding competitors.
“We are committed to keeping every participant safe. Today’s success shows that off-road sport can thrive here with the right planning and community support,” she said.
Organisers said preparations for the 2026 edition were already underway, with plans for a bigger field and improved race routes. (NAN)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
