OUAHIGOUYA: In a spirited celebration of Burkina Faso’s 64th anniversary of independence, the Ouahigouya Hikers Club (CRPO) organized a marathon named “December 11, 11 kilometers” in the city of Naaba Kango. The event, conducted on the morning of December 11, drew about a hundred participants who embarked on the 11-kilometer journey, showcasing the community’s commitment to fitness and health.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the marathon commenced at 5:30 a.m. from the Regional Directorate of Sports and Leisure of the North. Participants, including young people, men, women, retirees, and teenagers, followed a circuit through the city streets, accompanied by music that set a brisk and motivating pace. The event not only celebrated the national holiday but also underscored the importance of maintaining physical fitness.
The Ouahigouya Hikers Club frequently organizes such events on major public holidays, offering mini-marathons of 10 to 15 kilometers in addition to regular group walking sessions. Idr
issa Nacanabo, the head of the club, noted that the organization was founded to combat health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and heart problems, which are exacerbated by sedentary lifestyles and idleness.
During the marathon, the CRPO was honored with a certificate of recognition from the Yako Xpress Walking Club, acknowledging its contributions to promoting public health through sports walking. The event also provided an opportunity for the CRPO to express gratitude to SOTRACO and other partners for their continuous support since the club’s official recognition as a sports entity in December 2022.