Running Safety Tips On Nigerian Roads
Running Safety Tips On Nigerian Roads
Directions and Road Rules
As
much as possible we will try and keep to the same road routes during
the week. This ensures no one gets lost and we can get very familiar
with the terrain, especially when its dark
during the outbound. For example, once you have done the U-turn at
France (French Embassy), I know there is a half open slab about
400metres before Tinubu’s house. NGD only just evaded it today. Great
foot work btw!! But irrespective of the challenges
or new routes created, there are some basic rules we MUST follow:
- Always face oncoming traffic when running. The only exception is if you stay STRICTLY on the curb.
- Stay as close to the curb as possible, no matter how isolated the road is (eg behind Avalon).
- You can allow your mind to wonder but your eyes must be firmly on the road ahead and/or runner in front of you.
- Because we mostly run against traffic, the most dangerous time is when the road bends to the left. It’s a blind spot for both driver and runner. We MUST be in a single file, and 3-4 paces behind each other to give adequate reaction time, in case of a need to suddenly change direction.
- The lead runner will raise his arm to indicate single file. This message must be passed down the line as a considerable gap may have been created.
Clothing
The
Whip will tell us at least a day before where we are meeting and what
the drill is. So wherever possible, we should please wear reflective
gear (tops, caps, sweat bands etc). Frankly,
it makes sense to invest in reflective vests. There are a few people
travelling who can bring them back or you can try the addidas shop just
by stanbic, which had a handful when last I was there. You wont need
them for our Banana Island (BI) runs, or Saturdays, or even lekoyi
hill runs. But it makes sense for the France, Falomo, Bourdillon, even
Lekki routes. It is not a MUST that you get one but it is equally not
advisable that we wear black or dark clothing when we are running to
France at 5.30am
Hydration
Every
runner must have a drink or access to one every 5-6ks. I know its
early in the morning and we don’t feel the thirst so much. I am
actually a major culprit!! But we MUST hydrate.
The distances are getting longer and the intensity is building. Again,
I would advise we all get these belts that hold drinks. If you don’t
fancy that, then please hold a bottle. Whichever is your preference.
Remember we dont have the best emergency services
in the world and the closest runner to you could be 1km away. On the
weekend/holiday long runs, the routes will be designed in such a way
that there is water every 5ks. But it might also be sensible to have a
back up plan, depending on your needs
Be Safe
By The Force
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Running Safety Tips
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