Final Touches Made for 30th Mount Cameroon Race of Hope

By Ngunyi Sonita Nwohtazie

BUEA, Cameroon – With just days to go until the highly anticipated 30th edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, stakeholders have finalized preparations to ensure a successful event. A crucial preparatory meeting, chaired by the Governor of the South West Region, Bernard Okalia Bilai, was held to assess the readiness of various committees ahead of the race.

Scheduled for February 22nd at the Molyko Omnisport Stadium, the race is set to welcome athletes from across the globe, all eager to take on the legendary "Chariots of the Gods." Governor Okalia Bilai emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety and efficiency, particularly in the health sector, following the tragic death of an international athlete in last year’s edition.

Enhanced Health Measures for Athletes

Health officials have assured that extensive measures are in place to prevent any medical emergencies. Dr Eko Eko Filbert, the South West Regional Delegate of Public Health, outlined the key innovations for this year’s race:

"In light of last year’s unfortunate incident, we have introduced stricter health regulations. Medical examinations will be conducted before, during, and after the race. Once we have the final list of athletes, each participant will undergo a fitness evaluation to ensure they are physically capable of competing. Athletes with medical conditions that could pose risks will be disqualified."

The introduction of anti-doping tests will be a major innovation in this year’s edition. Dr Eko Eko Filbert emphasized that all athletes will undergo doping screenings before the race, and any participant who fails the test will be eliminated.

Race Track Cleared and Ready

Preparations for the racecourse have also been completed. Eteki Njoh, President of the South West Regional Athletics Federation, confirmed that the track leading up the mountain has been cleared and is in optimal condition for race day.

"Local committees have worked tirelessly to ensure everything is in place. Officials have been designated at different points from the Molyko Stadium to the mountain summit, and the track is fully prepared for the competition," he reassured.

Despite the extensive preparations, the exact number of participants for the 30th edition is yet to be confirmed. However, officials remain optimistic about a high turnout, with expectations that this year’s race will match or surpass last year's edition, which saw approximately 600 athletes from 13 different countries competing.
Cultural Innovations for a Colorful Celebration

The Mount Cameroon Race of Hope is not just about athletics – it is also a vibrant cultural event. This year, the South West Regional Delegation of Arts and Culture has introduced new elements to enrich the celebration. Itoe Doris Angoula, the Regional Delegate of Arts and Culture, shared details on these enhancements: She said:

"We have invited various cultural dance groups to animate the event, ensuring that all four cultural zones of the Southwest Region are well represented.
“Additionally, we have partnered with students from the Universities of Buea, Douala, and Yaoundé to organize a special cultural caravan. Fan clubs have also been engaged to boost the festive atmosphere in the town."

With just days left before a new champion is crowned, all eyes are on Buea as the city prepares to host one of Africa’s most prestigious endurance races