PitStop Triathlon Initiative Boosts Grassroots Development in Lagos

Ayodeji Ake

Sports stakeholders have emphasised the need for increased grassroots investment and private sector participation following the debut of a triathlon competition organised by PitStop Lagos, aimed at building a sustainable talent pipeline and promoting fitness culture in the country.

President of the Nigerian Triathlon Union, Wale Oladunjoye, described the event as a positive development for the sport.

“We are pleased to collaborate with initiatives like this. It is a step in the right direction for triathlon in Nigeria,” he said.

He stressed the importance of athlete welfare and proper competition environments.

“In triathlon, exposure must be carefully managed. Safety, hygiene, and athlete well-being are critical because without the athletes, there is no sport,” he noted.

Elite cyclist, Preye John Dede, who won the maiden edition of the PitStop Lagos triathlon, securing the top prize of N1.5 million, added that such initiatives could produce future international champions.
“With consistency, we can develop athletes who will represent Nigeria globally,” he stated.

Gana Issac came second with N1.125 million, while Favour Fashanu earned N756,000 for finishing third. Other prize winners include Miebaka Aggo (N350,000) and Odumu Henry (N200,000), with five additional participants receiving N50,000 each.

Another five participants received N25,000 each, at the three stage race, which featured a 150-metre swim, 20-kilometre cycling stretch and a 2.5-kilometre run, which held at the Pitstop village in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Reflecting on his win, Dede said he overcame physical challenges to emerge victorious.

Founder of PitStop Lagos, Aminadab Allen Adegboro, said the competition aligns with efforts to promote fitness and build a sustainable sports ecosystem.
“We are encouraging people to challenge themselves and adopt a healthy lifestyle while also nurturing talent,” she said.

She also acknowledged the role of sponsors in the success of the event.
“We sincerely appreciate Access Bank, Ilubirin, and Craneburg for supporting this vision and helping us make this event a reality,” she added.

Adegboro explained that the initiative, which started during the COVID-19 period, has evolved into a broader movement integrating cycling, running, and walking communities, with plans for expansion.