By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, PAV – The President of the South West Regional League of Athletics, Eteki Njoh Andrew, has announced that the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope Test Race will take place on January 24, 2026, while the main race is scheduled for February 21, 2026.
Speaking during a press briefing held in Buea on January 8, Eteki Njoh said preparations for the 31st edition of the iconic mountain race were on course, assuring athletes, partners and the public that the region was ready to host another successful competition.
“As far as preparation is concerned, we are good to go. It is remaining for the actors to cross their eyes and dot their teeth, and everything will be fine,” Eteki Njoh told Pan African Visions.
In a major incentive aimed at boosting participation and competitiveness, the Regional League announced cash prizes for the Test Race. Winners in both the male and female categories will receive 100,000 FCFA each, while second-place finishers will go home with 75,000 FCFA and third-place athletes with 50,000 FCFA.
Eteki Njoh explained that the Test Race, which serves as a qualification event for the main race, has now been made more attractive to athletes, noting that in previous years, no prize money was attached to it.
“This year, the South West Regional League has decided to motivate athletes. We are giving out cash prizes, medals and trophies. Athletes should know that there are prizes to be won,” he said.
The athletics boss used the briefing to review the just-ended 30th edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, describing it as refreshing and encouraging, particularly due to the emergence of new champions.
“What gladdened my heart last year is that it is no longer the same people winning the prizes. Every year now, we have new champions,” he noted, contrasting the current trend with past editions dominated by legendary runners such as Sarah Etonge (known as the Queen of the Mountain), Tata Thomas and Ngwang Catherine.
He also expressed satisfaction with the growing diversity of spectators at the event, revealing that for the first time in the history of the race, he noticed a significant turnout of Muslim spectators from the northern regions.
“That population was alarming in a good way. It shows that people have started understanding why it is necessary to be part and parcel of this race,” he said.
Addressing questions about last year’s dramatic race moments, including the much-discussed case of athlete Mofor Jeremiah, who faded after leading early stages, Eteki Njoh attributed the setback to fatigue and poor race management.
“When an athlete does not take advice, you risk problems. Some races were too close to the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, and without enough rest, fatigue is inevitable,” he explained, adding that he still believes Jeremiah has the potential to win in future editions.
On concerns about the perceived dominance of athletes from the North West Region, the League president dismissed fears of permanent regional imbalance, insisting that cycles of dominance are natural in sport.
“When this race started, Bakwerians were winning. Times have changed, but they will come back. Youth are being prepared, and the South West will return to the limelight,” he assured.
Eteki Njoh also clarified issues surrounding medical screening and registration, stressing that medical tests are conducted within the mandatory 72-hour window before race day, even if some athletes complete the process on the eve of the race.
He further emphasised that participation in the Test Race is compulsory for all athletes wishing to compete in the main Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, as qualification is based on performance and fitness during the test run. “Every year we expect about 1,000 athletes, but after qualification, we usually retain between 500 and 600,” he said.
The Regional League president commended media houses in the South West Region for their consistent partnership and coverage, acknowledging their role in promoting athletics and the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope nationally and beyond.
“Without the media, we are not sure we would be where we are today. We pray that you continue to partner with us so that together we can build strong athletes for the region and the nation,” he said.
With the Test Race barely weeks away, all eyes are now on January 24, as athletes begin the climb toward the legendary Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, which is slated for February 21, 2026.
