There’s something humbling about lining up for a race and realising that a significant number of your fellow runners are barefooted. It’s even more humbling when you know that the vast majority of them will beat you to the top of the rocky mountain looming before you. No, this wasn’t part of the latest craze for minimalist footwear; it was the Obudu Mountain Race in Cross River State, Nigeria.

The Obudu ranch was first built by a pair of Scots in the 1950s. In search of a good spot to eat steak, escape the mosquitos and admire the view, they settled on the cool climate of the mountainous region on the border of Nigeria and Cameroon. Recently renovated by the Cross River State government, the Obudu Resort now stands as a highpoint in Nigeria’s fledgling tourism industry. More importantly, each year it hosts the Obudu Mountain Race, a 13km uphill run.

Since 2012, the race has technically only been open to professionals, but it turns out that being an eccentric European is also grounds for entry. Substantial prize money attracted a selection of East African elite runners, including the returning 2012 champions Abebe Dinkesa and Etenesh Diro. Alongside them there were an assortment of committed Nigerian athletes who benefited from both local knowledge and vocal support. And then there was us: four pasty expat amateurs from Abuja, whose weekly training consists of casual 7km jogs followed by large quantities of suya (grilled meat) and local beer.

As the starting gun was fired, we watched our competitors disappear in a cloud of dust as they sprinted to the base of the mountain. Over the first 4km, the course ascends more than 800m up rocky trails, making it more of a scramble than a run. Fortunately, the spectacular views across the misty rainforest provided a good excuse to periodically rest my aching calves and catch my gasping breath.

Once the course levelled out and the sun came up the pain really began; at least on the steep ascent I had been able to walk with impunity. After another nine exhilarating and exhausting kilometres I arrived at the summit. The inflatable victory arch may have had a puncture but the MC was in high spirits and the local villagers, out in force, cheered enthusiastically for the first Oyibo (white man) to cross the finish line. The winner, Rono Philemon from Kenya, had beaten me by a full 40 minutes in the astounding time of 1:00:43.

Soon it was time for the awards ceremony hosted by a selection of local dignitaries. The announcement of prize money prompted even louder cheers than the name of the receiving athletes. We may not have won any medals but our efforts were rewarded by the state governor declaring that, if we could do it, he saw no reason why all local politicians shouldn’t be compelled to compete next year.

The day was topped off by an impressive gala dinner complete with palm wine, fireworks and lots of excellent dancing (barring a few notable exceptions). So, if you happen to find yourself in the remote regions of south-astern Nigeria next November I can wholeheartedly recommend taking part in what will be the 10th Obudu Mountain Race. With its combination of pedigree athleticism and Nigerian hospitality it will always remain one the most unusual and enjoyable races I have ever completed.

Source: Read Full Article