Osun Marathoner inspires women to start over at any age

Abiola Aremu, an inspirational marathon runner from Iwo, Osun State, has shared her remarkable story of returning to athletics after a 17-year hiatus, proving that it is never too late to rediscover purpose and passion.

Aremu said her love for running began during her primary school days before becoming more competitive while attending Iwo Grammar School, Iwo, between 2003 and 2006. However, she stopped running in her final year of secondary school.

Years later, on April 19, 2024, he made the decision that changed his life: to run again. What started as a hobby soon became a powerful tool that helped her overcome her personal struggles and improve her mental well-being.

“I was in a bad state of mind and I remembered how much I loved running as a kid,” she explained. “I told myself to show up as often as I could.”

Determined to rebuild herself, Aremu began running three times a week, leaving home before 6:00 a.m. consistently for more than a year. After a year and ten months of training, he participated in his first race, a 17.5 kilometer test.

He admitted that one of his biggest struggles was learning how to improve his speed without going beyond the limits of his body. It took more than seven months to understand the balance.

For more than a year and eight months he trained without a coach or mentor. His journey changed when he met another runner during a long run on Saturday. Friendship became an important source of guidance and encouragement.

According to Aremu, running has transformed almost every aspect of her life. He said it improved his nutrition, mindset, productivity, focus, relationships, personal growth and how he views the future.

“I feel like I’ve been given a new life,” he said. “My trust in God and humanity has increased and I am grateful for the gift of life.”

Looking ahead, Aremu hopes to complete the top six global marathons and inspire thousands of people to embrace fitness and healthy living. He also dreams of joining efforts to sponsor marathons throughout southwestern Nigeria.

Speaking directly to the women, Aremu encouraged them to not let age, background, body size, resources or cultural barriers stop them from playing sports and growing personally.

“Start where you are,” he advised. “Try harder, stretch harder, and give yourself grace. Never give up because better days await you.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the journey back to what once brought joy can become the path to a better future.